Mental and behavioural disorders in children require a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. A multidisciplinary approach is the most effective one, where a team of specialists from different fields works with the child, providing comprehensive development and support. Below are some basic principles and stages of working with such children.
Multidisciplinary approach
Successful work with children with mental and behavioural disorders depends on a multidisciplinary team consisting of the following specialists:
- Paediatric psychiatrist conducts initial diagnostics, determines the need for medicinal treatment, monitors its effectiveness and adjusts it as necessary.
- Child psychologist conducts psychodiagnostics, holds individual and group sessions, helps a child and his/her family to adapt to life.
- Speech therapist works on correction of speech disorders, helps to develop communication skills.
- Correctional teacher develops and implements individual educational programmes, helps a child master school material, taking into account the child’s peculiarities.
- Social worker offers support to a family, helps address social problems, coordinates work with other institutions and organisations.
Interaction with a family
The effectiveness of work with a child largely depends on the interaction between specialists and the child’s family. The family is a key partner in rehabilitation. The main principles of such interaction are as follows:
- Close communication, such as holding regular consultations and meetings with family members, joint planning of rehabilitation activities.
- Distribution of roles and responsibilities, such as involving parents in performing certain tasks, defining the role of each team member to achieve a common goal.
- Support and education of parents, such as providing information and resources to understand the disorder, teaching methods of interaction with the child, emotional support.
Consequences of refusing to consult a child psychiatrist
Sometimes parents decline to consult a child psychiatrist, which can have adverse effects on rehabilitation. Such refusals reduce the effectiveness of care, as a psychiatrist is a key specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. It also means that parents take on additional responsibility for their child’s condition and may not receive the necessary support.
Warning about possible consequences
Not a single family will be denied our help, but we warn that refusal to consult a child psychiatrist may compromise the results of rehabilitation. Our goal is to provide the most effective support and assistance to a child and his or her family. We strongly recommend that you follow the recommendations of all members of the multidisciplinary team.
Conclusion
A multidisciplinary approach to working with children with mental and behavioural disorders is the most effective way to ensure their comprehensive development and integration into society. Interaction between specialists and families is key for success, and following the team’s recommendations ensures the best results.
