Sometimes it’s hard to admit when we need help, when we can’t fix everything and we can’t always do everything on our own. You are not alone if you feel your child may benefit from some therapeutic support! You have not failed in some way. In fact, you are doing the BEST thing for your child by looking into how to help. Hold your head up high. You are an AWESOME parent!
What are the mental health and therapy options for kids in Brisbane?
Kids from toddlers to teenagers may need support for various reasons, ranging from behavioural and developmental issues to learning and physical disabilities. The great news is that here in Brisbane, we have access to many excellent organisations and services for an extensive range of childhood issues. The bad news is that with so many on offer, it can be hard for parents to determine which type of therapy is the most suitable for their child. We look at some of the main therapies available for kids in Brisbane to help you discover the right path for your family.
Family doctors in Brisbane
While they don’t provide therapy themselves, visiting a medical practitioner such as your family GP is a very important first step whenever you have concerns about your child’s physical or mental health. Early diagnosis of issues is fundamental in ensuring children receive the appropriate help as soon as possible, which can make a massive difference to the efficacy of the treatment and can be life-changing for everyone involved. Your GP can also refer you to relevant therapists and other support to ensure you get the best aid possible.
Counselling and Psychotherapy for Kids
Often confused with each other, counselling and psychotherapy are both essentially talking-based therapies. While they can overlap and often do, counselling is generally advice-based treatment for dealing with particular situations or problems, whereas psychotherapy is usually a longer process focusing on general thought processes and behaviour rather than single problems. Counselling and psychotherapy are usually helpful for kids who need guidance with issues such as:
• anger management;
• anxiety;
• behavioural issues;
• depression;
• family issues;
• low confidence and self-esteem;
• social difficulties; and
• stress.
Often counselling and psychotherapy sessions for children involve a combination of individual therapy, group therapy and family therapy, based on the child’s needs. One of the most common forms of therapy for children offered by child psychologists is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which aims to help kids cultivate positive thought processes for better coping and stress management in difficult times.
For more in-depth details of specific psychology and counselling services for kids in Brisbane, mental health services for teens.
Brisbane Children’s Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy helps people gain independence by improving their daily tasks at home, school and play. It focuses on sensory issues, motor skills, and cognitive and social skills. It can provide a huge help to kids who face issues including:
• chromosomal disorders;
• developmental delays;
• learning disabilities;
• neurological disorders;
• physical disabilities; and
• social difficulties.
You can also read What to Look For in an Occupational Therapist in Brisbane for more information and guidance.
Physiotherapy in Brisbane for Kids
Physiotherapy for kids aims to enhance their mobility, movement and physical abilities. They can help children function at their best through various strategies and exercises involving treatments such as Hydrotherapy and Suspension Therapy. Physiotherapy can greatly help kids with the following and more:
• chromosomal disorders;
• developmental delays;
• foot anomalies;
• injuries;
• neurological conditions;
• physical disabilities; and
• premature births.
Brisbane Speech Therapy
Speech Therapy or Speech Pathology helps kids develop their speech skills and ability to use and understand language. As well as helping with communication skills, Speech Therapy can help children tackle eating and drinking issues. Speech Therapy may be a useful therapy for kids who have:
• developmental delays;
• difficulty swallowing;
• hearing or auditory processing issues;
• illiteracy;
• language issues;
• learning disabilities;
• physical disabilities;
• problems with speech (e.g. pronunciation, stuttering); and
• social issues.
For a wealth of information, advice and services, our Special Needs section is a great resource.
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