Our Child & Family Program

The symptoms of ADHD can vary, but they often include:

• Persistent fidgeting
• Trouble waiting for their turn with toys, devices, or food
• Impulsive actions rather than following instructions or thinking things through
• A "stream of consciousness" when sharing their thoughts

If you suspect your child may have ADHD, it's important to consult a pediatrician, pediatric psychiatrist, or psychologist for a formal diagnosis through ADHD testing.

Treatment for ADHD in children may involve therapy, which can be an effective option used alone or alongside medication.

Williamsburg Therapy Group offers assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions for children as young as two years old. ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that is more prevalent in boys than girls and affects communication and behavior.

Key indicators used to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder include:

• Challenges in communication and social interaction
• Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors
• Symptoms that hinder the individual’s ability to function effectively in school, work, and other areas of life
• Difficulties with self-control and disruptive behavior

Since ASD can be identified early, evaluating a child's development is crucial. At Williamsburg Therapy Group, we conduct comprehensive autism testing that assesses the child's early development, strengths, and areas of concern.

A child psychologist specializes in working with children and adolescents, focusing on their mental, social, and emotional development. They assist children in coping with life challenges such as divorce, loss, and transitions at home or school.

The children they work with may also experience various developmental or learning disabilities. Regardless of age, our child psychologists aim to understand, prevent, and address cognitive, behavioral, and social issues for each child.

Within the realm of child psychology, a school psychologist operates specifically in educational settings. Their responsibilities include assessing students and developing tailored educational plans and programs in collaboration with other professionals.

A child can begin therapy at any age, although the approach will vary based on their age and developmental stage. The youngest clients are often toddlers experiencing behavioral issues or those who have faced trauma.

For very young children, therapy typically involves their parents, teaching them new strategies to comfort and guide their child. At this age, sessions are often play-focused and centered on helping the child learn and navigate their environment.

Children aged 7 to 9 are usually ready for one-on-one sessions with a therapist and can understand and benefit from techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy. Parents may receive updates or have meetings with the therapist to learn parenting strategies that support their child's therapy.

Teenagers can participate in therapy that resembles standard adult therapy, though it often includes additional guidance and tailored techniques to meet their needs.

Finding the right child therapist on your first attempt is crucial. While Chicago has numerous qualified child therapists, it’s important to ensure you choose the one that best fits your child's needs.

Before selecting a therapist for your child, consider the following questions:

• What specific behavioral issues do I want to address?
• What are my goals for my child?
• What goals does my child have?
• What is my budget for a child therapist?
• Which local organizations are most reputable for child counseling?
• Which providers have the most experienced therapists?

The structure of a child counseling or therapy session varies based on the child’s specific experiences. Some professionals guide the child through therapeutic scenarios, while others focus on understanding aspects of child psychology, such as mental health or developmental challenges.

In every session, our therapists strive to build understanding and rapport with the child, drawing on their extensive experience and adhering to the highest therapeutic standards.

Key responsibilities of a child psychologist include:

• Administering neuropsychological assessments
• Conducting research on childhood development
• Diagnosing and treating learning or developmental disabilities
• Collaborating with a healthcare team to create a tailored treatment plan
• Assisting clients in managing behavioral issues