Psychology Yarraville by YHG

Yarraville Health Group also provides child and adolescent psychologists for all age groups. Although children and teenagers encounter many of the same mental health issues as adults, their symptoms often manifest differently. Instead of verbalising their concerns as adults, children often exhibit them through their actions. Parents may notice changes in their child’s behaviour such as excessive anxiety, heightened irritability, anger or aggression, sleep disorders, excessive crying, or avoiding school. Sometimes, children may claim to feel sick even when there’s no physical ailment present. Teenagers, on the other hand, may have improved communication skills, but could hesitate to express their worries due to embarrassment. Here is where a clinically trained psychologist comes in.

An adolescent or child psychologist can aid in determining if your child’s behavioural changes are a normal part of growing up or an indicator of mental health issues. Such psychologists employ various methods suitable for different ages to enable children to voice their worries. Child psychologists will often employ strategies that involve play (which allows the child to express themselves non-verbally), while adolescent psychologists have learned to tap into themes that appeal to adolescents. In most cases, therapy for young individuals also incorporates engagement with parents or caregivers. Psychology treatment approaches could include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Behavioural Parent Training (BPT), Mindfulness, play therapy, and supportive counselling.