How A Bay Area Educational Psychologist Can Change The Life Of A Child

By Gary Morris


In less enlightened times children that displayed unruly behaviour, that had difficulty learning and reading, that struggled to concentrate on a task and that exhibited socially unacceptable behaviour were deemed as plain stupid, wilfully naughty and often even as abnormal. Nowadays psychological and medical experts know that their is a variety of recognizable conditions that can cause these symptoms and behavioural patterns. A Bay Area educational psychologist can help such children to manage their conditions and to lead normal lives.

Teachers, care givers and parents are often in the best position to realize that the behaviour and development of a child may not be normal. Disturbing behaviour and a sudden change in behavioural patterns does not necessarily mean that the child is suffering from a psychological condition, however. He may have experienced trauma or may even suffer from a medical condition that manifest in psychological symptoms.

Some symptoms are common to many psychological conditions. They include an inability to focus on a task and to complete it, learning difficulties, a short attention span and fidgety behaviour. Some children talk incessantly while others withdraw into themselves and refuse to participate in social interaction. Many sufferers struggle to sleep and others develop eating disorders.

Child psychologists use a wide variety of tests and techniques to evaluate potential patients. Some of these tests are objective and measurable, but others are subjective and require careful interpretation. The assessor will also interview the parents. A thorough medical examination is also done because the child may suffer from a medical condition rather than a psychological one.

If a child is diagnosed with a conditions such as ADD, for example, the therapist will prepare a holistic treatment plan. Many parents think that a problem can be managed by means of medications such as Ritalin. This is not the case. Medication is not effective for all symptoms and patients sometimes experience very uncomfortable side effects. Instead, the treatment plan will focus on several areas and aim at helping the child to lead a normal fulfilling life.

Diet, exercise and good sleep are all very important components of a comprehensive treatment program. Just thirty minutes of exercise, preferably out of doors, have proven to be extremely beneficial. Exercise trigger the release of feel good chemical in the brain. A diet that contains enough omega fatty acids and protein is also deemed vital. Parents must ensure that their children get enough sleep.

Regular counselling sessions are also important. During these sessions young patients learn techniques that help them to cope with their conditions and to channel their energy in a positive manner. Many patients also practice disciplines such as yoga and meditation. This helps them to improve their concentration and to focus on a single issue at a time.

Thousands of children are able to lead perfectly normal lives after their underlying psychological conditions have been diagnosed. They are not disturbed, naughty or stupid. They suffer from a recognized condition that can be treated and managed.




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