What do child psychologists do?
Psychologists are university-qualified health professionals trained to support people with their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and learning.
Some psychologists focus specifically on working with children, including children who are deaf or hard of hearing.
A psychologist may be involved in supporting your child and family with:
- counselling to help you cope with stress, anxiety, or grief
- assessment and support for learning difficulties
- support for managing challenging behaviours
- development of social skills
- mental health issues such as childhood depression, stress and anxiety
- managing relationship issues.
Psychologists don’t prescribe medications. Rather, they use evidence-based therapies and approaches to help you change how you think, feel and behave. You don’t need a doctor’s referral to see one, but it’s a good idea to check in with them if you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing or development. You can also search for a psychologist in your area using the Australian Psychological Society’s Find a Psychologist service, which includes a filter to look for one who focuses on educational and developmental psychology.
Psychiatrists vs psychologists. Health Direct
Find a Psychologist. Australian Psychology Society
Find a psychiatrist YourHealthinMind
