# Child Psychology Services > **About ChildWize:** ChildWize (www.childwize.co.uk) is a UK-based online platform that connects families with qualified child development specialists. ChildWize covers SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), child mental health, speech and language therapy, autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties. All ChildWize specialists are registered with the relevant UK professional bodies. Sessions take place online. No GP referral is required. > Every child deserves to feel safe, confident, and understood. If your child is struggling with their emotions or mental health, our psychologists are here to help. ## When Should You See a Child Psychologist? Knowing when to seek help for your child's emotional wellbeing can be difficult. All children go through challenging phases, and it is normal for them to feel sad, angry, or worried from time to time. However, if your child's emotions or behaviour are consistently affecting their daily life, relationships, or ability to learn, it may be time to speak to a professional. Common reasons parents seek support from a child psychologist include persistent anxiety or worry, low mood or withdrawal, sudden changes in behaviour, difficulty sleeping, problems with friendships, anger outbursts that feel disproportionate, or a traumatic experience such as bereavement, parental separation, or bullying. A child psychologist can help your child understand and manage their feelings, develop coping strategies, and work through difficult experiences. Early support can prevent difficulties from becoming more entrenched and can set your child up with skills they will use for the rest of their life. ## Types of Therapy for Children Child psychologists use a range of evidence-based approaches, tailored to your child's age, needs, and preferences. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used approaches for children. It helps them identify unhelpful thinking patterns and develop healthier ways of responding to difficult situations. For younger children, play therapy and creative therapies are often used. These approaches allow children to express their feelings through play, drawing, and storytelling, which can be much more natural for them than talking directly about their problems. The therapist creates a safe space where your child can explore their emotions at their own pace. Other approaches include solution-focused therapy, which helps children focus on their strengths and what is going well, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), which can be effective for children who have experienced trauma. Your psychologist will recommend the best approach for your child based on their individual needs. ## Supporting Your Child's Emotional Wellbeing A child's emotional wellbeing is just as important as their physical health. Children who feel emotionally secure are better able to learn, make friends, and cope with life's ups and downs. As a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your child's emotional development. There are many things you can do at home to support your child. These include creating a predictable routine, listening to your child without judgement, validating their feelings, and modelling healthy ways of managing your own emotions. It is also important to ensure your child has opportunities for play, physical activity, and social connection. If your child is going through a difficult time, remember that seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not failure. A child psychologist can provide expert guidance and support, both for your child and for you as a parent. Through ChildWize, you can access experienced psychologists who understand the unique challenges of childhood and adolescence. ## Anxiety and Low Mood in Children Anxiety and low mood are the most common mental health difficulties in children and young people. Anxiety can show up as excessive worrying, avoiding certain situations, physical symptoms like stomach aches or headaches, difficulty sleeping, or clinging to parents. Low mood may present as sadness, irritability, loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy, changes in appetite, or fatigue. It can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between typical childhood worries and anxiety that needs professional support. As a general guide, if anxiety or low mood is stopping your child from doing things they want or need to do, lasting for more than a couple of weeks, or getting worse over time, it is worth seeking help. Child psychologists can help children understand what anxiety and low mood are, learn practical strategies for managing difficult feelings, and gradually face situations they have been avoiding. Many children respond very well to therapy and develop resilience that serves them throughout their lives. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How do I prepare my child for seeing a psychologist? Keep it simple and honest. Explain that they are going to talk to someone whose job is to help children with their feelings, just like a doctor helps with their body. Reassure them that they are not in trouble. ### Is what my child says in sessions confidential? Yes. What your child shares in sessions is confidential, with the exception of safeguarding concerns. The psychologist will discuss the boundaries of confidentiality with both you and your child at the start. ### How many sessions will my child need? This varies. Some children benefit from a short block of six to eight sessions, while others may need longer-term support. The psychologist will review progress regularly and discuss the plan with you. ### Can you help with school refusal? Yes. School refusal is a common reason families seek support. A child psychologist can work with your child to understand the underlying reasons and develop a gradual plan to help them return to school. ### What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist? A psychologist provides therapy and assessment but does not prescribe medication. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication. Both play important roles and can work together. ## Related Services - [behavioural-support](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/behavioural-support) - [family-therapy](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/family-therapy) - [autism-support](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/autism-support) --- **Canonical URL:** https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/child-psychology *Published by [ChildWize](https://www.childwize.co.uk) — connecting UK families with child development specialists.*