Child Psychiatrists Hickory NC

Many parents see signs of an attention deficit in toddlers long before the child enters school. For example, as a 3-year-old, Henry's son already displayed some signs of hyperactivity. He seemed to lose interest and dart off even during his favorite TV shows or while playing games. Once, during a game of "catch," he left the game before the ball even reached him!

Like Henry's son, a child may be unable to focus long enough to play a simple game. Or, like Mark, the child may be tearing around out of control. But because children mature at different rates, and are very different in personality, temperament, and energy level, it's useful to get an expert's opinion of whether the behaviors are appropriate for the child's age. Parents can ask their pediatrician, or a child psychologist or psychiatrist to assess whether their toddler has an attention disorder or is just immature, has hyperactivity or is just exuberant.

Seeing a child as "a chip off the old block" or "just like his dad" can blind parents to the need for help. Parents may find it hard to see their child's behavior as a problem when it so closely resembles their own. In fact, like Henry, many parents first recognize their own disorder only when their children are diagnosed.

In many cases, the teacher is the first to recognize that a child is hyperactive or inattentive and may consult with the school psychologist. Because teachers work with many children, they come to know how "average" children behave in learning situations that require attention and self control. However, teachers sometimes fail to notice the needs of children like Lisa who are quiet and cooperative.

Types of Professionals Who Make the Diagnosis

School-age and preschool children are often evaluated by a school psychologist or a team made up of the school psychologist and other specialists. But if the school doesn't believe the student has a problem, or if the family wants another opinion, a family may need to see a specialist in private practice. In such cases, who can the family turn to? What kinds of specialists do they need?

The family can start by talking with the child's pediatrician or their family doctor. Some pediatricians may do the assessment themselves, but more often they refer the family to an appropriate specialist they know and trust. In addition, state and local agencies that serve families and children, as well as some o...

If you have any of the problems listed in How do you know when you need help?, you probably need mental health care. If you aren't sure, you should at least see your family doctor. Some problems are easily addressed by safe and effective medications that your doctor can prescribe.

If you feel you need someone with whom to discuss your problems - and you want more professional advice - then you need to see a mental health professional.

Under some insurance plans you may not be able to get services from a mental health professional without first going to your family doctor and getting a referral.

Choosing a Mental Health Professional

Choosing the right mental health professional is important. First become familiar with the different types of mental health providers in your community. The differences usually have to do with education and training.

Gather recommendations from friends, family, your medical doctor, your clergy, your local Mental Health Association, and professional organizations such as the local branch of the Psychological Association. Check the Yellow Pages in your phone book under the listings of Mental Health Services; licensed Clinical Social Workers; Marriage, Family, Child Counselors; Psychologists; and Psychiatrists. Also read this resource guide for other suggestions.

About Licensed Mental Health Professionals in California:

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) has completed a master's degree in social work with additional post-graduate work practicing under the supervision of a licensed therapist. Social Workers may provide psychotherapy, rehabilitation and case management services in hospitals, clinics and in private practice.

A Marriage, Family and Child Counselor (MFCC) has completed a master's degree in marriage, family and child counseling, psychology, social work (emphasis clinical social work) or counseling (emphasis marriage, family and child counseling), with additional post-graduate work practicing under the supervision of a licensed psychotherapist. MFCCs may provide psychotherapy and work in a variety of settings with individuals, couples, families and children.

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D.) with special education and training in psychiatry. She/he can diagnose and treat the biological causes of mental disorders and prescribe medications and other therapies.

A Psychologist must complete a Ph.D. psychology. He/she can evaluate, diagnose and treat nervous, emotional and mental disorders as well as problems of everyday life and the psychological aspects of injury and disease. Most psychologists have specialized expertise in testing, psychological evaluation and psychotherapy.

Other mental health professionals you may encounter include psychiatric nurses, social workers, substance abuse counselors, psychiatric technicians, case managers and specialized therapist...