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Expert Q&A
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| By Paul Coleman Psychologist Family Therapist | ||
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My daughter recently started seeing a psychologist. Is it best she see him alone, or is family therapy more appropriate, even if the problem revolves around school?
Every therapist has his or her ""therapeutic orientation,"" which is jargon for the way they feel most comfortable conducting therapy. In my personal view, I would not see a child without involving the parents in some way. If it were a school problem, I would also contact the school (teachers, guidance counselor, whomever might be appropriate).
You don't say what the school related problem is. Most problems involve the parents – either they are contributing to the problem or they must respond to the problem. For that reason they need to be involved, at least periodically. For example, if the child is acting out in school or not getting homework done, that might possibly be (in part) a response to problems at home or inconsistent parenting. If a child is socially anxious or shy, it can help to get parents' input and keep them informed about treatment recommendations.
All in all, ask to be involved. If the therapist says no, seek a second opinion."
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