Discovering the right sort of professional help for your child’s emotional or behaviour issues can be daunting. Parents, confused about where to start or what to look for, wanting to be sure they are choosing the correct TLC for their child. In the UK, child psychologists are specially trained to assess and work with children and young people struggling in various areas such as high anxiety, low mood, problems with learning or concerns with their socialising. This guide will provide all the information you need regarding finding a professional child psychologist in the UK, including how much they charge, their qualifications and new knowledge.
How to find a child psychologist in the UK?
So, what does child psychologist do and where do they work? Get ready for an enlightening journey ahead! The first thing to note is understanding the job description of child psychologist. Child psychologists are professionals that have been trained and educated in the field of psychology to help them better understand children and their behaviour, emotions, and brain function. They can conduct psychological evaluations, deliver therapy, and arm the child and family with tools and techniques.
In the UK there are a number of pathways to being referred to a child psychologist:
- NHS referral: Your GP, or your child’s school, can refer your child to NHS child mental health services (known as CAMHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). But in some areas waiting times are long.
- Private practice: Other families elect to locate a private child psychologist so as to gain support more quickly. Privately-based psychologists may offer more flexible appointment times and treatment.
- Professional directories: Check on the British Psychological Society (BPS) website to find a psychologist by location. The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) also has a register of qualified psychologists who meet their professional standards within the UK.
How much does it cost to see a child psychologist in the UK?
Seeing a private child psychologist in the UK may differ in cost, The fees for private child psychologists in the UK can vary depending on location, experience, and the service type offered. On average:
- Sessions cost between £100 and £250 each in a first assessment.
- Therapists may charge between £90 and £150 an hour for continuous sessions.
- Specialist diagnoses (such as autism spectrum disorder or learning difficulties) also tend to be more costly often between £800 and £2,000 for a complete assessment package.
Ask about fees up front, and what is included in the fee (written reports, liaison with schools, feedback sessions, for example). Part of the cost may even be covered by some health insurance providers so it’s worth getting in touch with your insurer.
How to find the best child psychologist?
The “best” child psychologist will be different for everyone, and depends on your child’s unique needs. Here are some strategies to help your quest:
- Check credentials: Refer to both HCPC for Practitioner Psychologist and ideally the British Psychological Society.
- Seek experience: Ask about the psychologist’s experience working with children of the same age or who have similar challenges. There are some who specialise in anxiety disorders, some who specialise in learning difficulties and others who focus on mood or behaviour issues.
- Scour reviews or testimonials: A lot of psychologists have websites or listings in directories where parents post reviews.
- Take location and availability into account: The practical aspects of how close the therapist is to you or if you can meet for therapy online can make or break a working arrangement.
- First session: Many psychologists do an initial consultation where you can talk about your child’s needs before you commit. It can even help you gauge whether they’re a good fit for your family.
How to find a qualified psychologist?
The majority of people who work with children are not psychologists, by training. In the UK, even the title “psychologist” is not protected, but the titles Clinical Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, and Educational Psychologist are protected by law, and people using other titles must qualify their use to the HCPC.
Make sure in addition to the above you’re hiring a professional:
- Look them up on the HCPC register: All psychologists working under a protected title have to be registered with the HCPC.
- Check qualifications: A properly qualified psychologist will have completed at least a postgraduate qualification which is an approved course for the specific field of work (Doctorate in Clinical Psychology or its equivalent).
- Professional memberships: A lot of their qualified psychologists also hold chartership with the British Psychological Society (BPS).
This ensures psychologist has proper training, meets ethical standards, and engages in ongoing professional development.
How do I know which psychologist is right for me?
The right therapist for youIt’s not only the qualification that matters but you or the relationship behind it. Below are indications that you and your number are on right track.
- Good rapport: Your child seems comfortable and safe with the psychologist.
- Clear communication: The psychologist tells you and your child directly what they need to know.
- Collaborative philosophy: They ask for parent input and offer suggestions that complement your at-home role.
- Special treatment: Interventions should be administered as if they were specifically for your child, rather than something that could apply to any of many similar kids.
If, after a couple of sessions, you think fit isn’t right, it’s okay to find someone else. The best child psychologist will make your child feel like they are listened to and supported.
Is there a register of psychologists?
Yes. The UK parents meanwhile have a number of reputable registers to turn to for finding their child psychologist:
- Regulator of practitioner psychologists: The HCPC as the statutory body upheld to regulate the profession practitioner psychologists. You can check if a psychologist is legally able to practice in the UK by searching their online register.
- British Psychological Society (BPS): A list of chartered psychologists who adhere to strict ethical and professional guidelines can be found on their website.
- Specialist directories: Local NHS trusts, schools or private clinics may have directories of recommended practitioners.
By using these books you get to select an approriately unqualified and unregulated person.
Final thoughts
Finding the best children’s psychologist (UK) is very important in the wellbeing, the development, and the confidence of your child. 2) Deconstruct the journey The journey can seem daunting at first, but knowing what to look for, how much it should cost, and where to find the right experience can make it a lot clearer.
Begin by speaking to your GP or school and look at professional registers including the HCPC and BPS, allowing yourself the time to find someone who feels the best fit for your child. With the right intervention, children can be taught coping skills, favorite habits of mind, character traits, and thrive emotionally and academically.
