Child Psychogists
What do Child Psychologists do?
Child psychologists are mental health professionals who specialise in assessing, evaluating, and managing mental, emotional, social, and behavioural issues in children and adolescents. We use psychological evaluations tools, standardised assessments, and different types of therapies to help their young clients cope with the challenges of life, relationship issues, and mental health conditions.
Child psychologists may also be known as child therapists, child psychotherapists, child and adolescent psychologists, or pediatric psychologists. We assist with a variety of problematic experiences a child may confront during their development, from learning difficulties to anxiety about school, challenges in relationships with friends or parents, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are my child’s behaviours ‘normal’?
It is difficult to diagnose or rule-out what is ‘normal’ when presented with a set of behaviours. The most effective way to be able to identify shifts from a child’s baseline behaviours is to pay close attention to their activities, feelings, and behaviours, and noting marked shifts from their typical routines. By doing so, you may start to identify unusual patterns or issues across time. If you find it challenging to interpret your child's behaviours, consider scheduling an appointment with a child psychologist.
What is an appropriate age to bring a child to a child psychologist?
The age for child psychology can vary based on the child’s needs and the nature of the concern. In some cases, psychologists may prescribe early intervention from a young age and teach parents strategies to help their children along their developmental milestones. However, if specific concerns arise, it is appropriate for a parent to see a child psychologist at any age.
What disorders do Child Psychologists manage?
Our child psychologists are based in Singapore and work with children and their families in areas including:
Ψ Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Global Developmental Delay (GDD), Intellectual Disability, Specific Learning Disorder like Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia
Ψ Conduct Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Ψ Challenging behaviours, such as aggression, violence, adjustment difficulties, rigidity.
Ψ Anxiety, such as separation and social anxieties, phobias, avoidance of situations, school refusal
Ψ Socio-emotional difficulties, such as depression
Ψ Self confidence and self esteem
Ψ Social skills
Ψ Parent support, counselling, and skill development sessions
Our child psychologists help children and their families work through life’s challenging moments in a safe and supportive setting, and teach them effective and adaptive coping strategies and skills.
What happens during a session with a Child Psychologist?
During a child psychology session, our child psychologists use a mix of language and play to observe, assess, and guide the child(ren) experiencing behavioural, social, emotional, and/or psychological difficulties. Various techniques and methods (drawing, engaging in playing, journaling, etc.) will be incorporated to meet the needs of each child. We also work closely with those involved with the child, such as parents and schools, to maximise effectiveness, provide ongoing support, skills and strategies to use at home and school, and ensure that ample support is provided to the child.
Our child psychologists are also trained in conducting formal assessment services, including cognitive assessments (i.e. IQ testing) and neurodevelopmental assessments.
Multi-disciplinary Child Intake Assessment
To provide the most thorough and holistic care for each child and their families, we go above and beyond the usual history-taking from parents.
At Annabelle Kids, we offer a multi-disciplinary intake where our child therapists from all 3 specialisations — psychology, speech therapy, & occupational therapy — will consult with you.
A multidisciplinary approach provides a holistic assessment across multiple domains so your child’s needs will be met more comprehensively and appropriately.