How A Bay Area Educational Psychologist Can Give A Troubled Child A New Lease On Life

By Gary Morris


In times gone by children and young people that struggled to learn, that exhibited anti social behaviour and that generally refused to conform were labelled and treated as dumb, naughty or simply backward. Such unfortunate people were given few chances in life. Today, medical and psychological experts accept the fact that there are numerous conditions that can have a negative influence on the behaviour of children. With help from a Bay Area educational psychologist such conditions can be diagnosed and treated.

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.

Among the signs to look out for is a tendency to talk incessantly, an inability to complete a task and a tendency to flip from one project to another and a very short attention span. Poor academic performance can also be an indicator that the child may suffer from a psychological condition. When in doubt the best course of action is to have the child assesses by a professional. It can do no harm.

A qualified and experienced professional will conduct a very thorough assessment of the child. They will perform a number of quantitative as well as non quantitative tests. There will also be an exhaustive interview with the parents and sometimes even the teacher. The child will even be referred for a thorough medical examination because sometimes a medical condition can manifest in psychological symptoms.

If a psychological condition is diagnosed, the next step is to develop a specific treatment plan unique to that patient. In some cases medication is prescribed, but this is not always deemed to be beneficial. Some patients do not react well to medication or they experience adverse side effects. There is no miracle medicine that can neutralize all the symptoms of any specific condition.

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.

Ongoing counselling can help the child to learn how to cope with his condition. The therapist will teach the child techniques that will help him to increase his concentration and to deal with frustration. Many children also benefit from participating in disciplines such as yoga or meditation. It helps them to focus and to concentrate.

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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