- When kids’ behavioral issues exceed what parents can manage, therapy may be recommended, but finding the right therapist depends on goodness of fit—the therapist’s skillset must align with the child’s needs.
- Parents should approach the first evaluation thoughtfully and ask the therapist four key questions:
- Formulation of the problem – Can the therapist explain the child’s issue in plain, relatable terms?
- Proposed method of treatment – Does the therapeutic approach make sense to the parent and feel practical?
- Expected duration – How long before results might be seen (e.g., weeks, months, or ongoing for chronic conditions like ADHD)?
- Criteria for ending therapy – What are the realistic goals, and how will parent and therapist know when therapy has been successful enough to stop?
- These questions ensure parents become informed, effective consumers of mental health care and help avoid mismatches in treatment.
Choosing the Right Therapist for Your Child
Choosing a therapist for your child can be difficult. What should you look for?
Craig Donnelly, MD, Pediatric Psychiatry
