There are two common ways of treating mental health conditions in children:
Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, also frequently known as talk therapy or as behaviour therapy, is a practice by psychologists and/or counsellors. During psychotherapy, the psychologist focuses the conversations with the child. Through the conversation, the psychologist understands the mental condition of the child. The focus is on understanding the moods, feelings thoughts and behaviours. Hence, the main benefit of psychotherapy is that the child learns how to react to situations. Also, he learns about coping skills. Psychotherapy is non-invasive and enables the child with lifelong skills.
Medication: The psychiatrist will prescribe medication to the child. These are medications that are only available via prescriptions and are usually antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, mood changing drugs etc. While the change in behavior with medication is far more rapid, it sometimes leads to a chemical imbalance, and the symptoms reoccur in some cases when the medication is weaned off. As with any medication, it is important that is taken under the strict supervision of a qualified doctor.
Many children benefit from a combination approach. It is best to consult with a qualified psychologist as psychotherapy is more benign. If your psychologist sees the need, they will refer you to a qualified psychiatrist. Prior to taking any medication have a detailed discussion with your psychiatrist on the benefits and risks of the prescription medication.
About Dr. Prerna Kohli
She is a 100 women Achievers Award Winner (2016) from the Honorable President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee
Dr. Prerna Kohli is a Clinical Psychologist, a Public Speaker, a Workshop Facilitator and a Holistic Practitioner. She offers Heart-based workshops and lectures that focus on Life Balance, Self-awareness and Inner Peace. Dedicated to sharing her knowledge and compassion with others, Prerna blends intuitive wisdom with solid understanding, creating a powerful holistic approach, specializing in the areas of Emotional change.
Dr. Prerna Kohli is a leading Child Psychologist in India and provides both parents and children counselling on raising healthy and well rounded children.
