Let our child psychologist design a treatment program specifically tailored to meet your child's individual needs. Call us at 703-893-3431 or click on the request consultation button below to let us know the types of services that your child needs.
Compassionate Child Psychologist in McLean
At McLean Psychological Practice, we recognize the unique challenges faced by children and parents today. Our dedicated child psychologist is here to offer expert care and support tailored to your family's diverse needs. Whether dealing with school issues, emotional challenges, or family dynamics, our team is ready to assist. Dr. Nay brings experience and empathy, ensuring personalized support for every family.
Comprehensive Child Psychology Services
Our child psychologists specialize in a broad range of services tailored to meet the developmental, emotional, and psychological needs of children and adolescents. We offer:
- Individual Therapy: Personalized sessions that help children explore their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts in a supportive environment.
- Family Counseling: We work with families to improve communication, solve family problems, and strengthen relationships, providing a foundation for healthier interactions.
- Parent Counseling: Our services extend to parents with guidance and strategies to support their child's development and well-being effectively.
Our Approach to Child Psychology
Children & Adolescents: If your child or teen is experiencing a mood, anxiety, or behavioral problem or is having school study or social issues, we offer Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies that address the child’s unhelpful thinking and attitudes as well as teaching new coping behaviors. Parents are an integral part of our treatment planning, as are school administrators and teachers when essential.
Anger & Conduct Problems
At McLean Psychological Practice, we recognize that anger and conduct problems can be significant challenges for children, adolescents, and their families. These issues often manifest as aggression, defiance, frequent temper tantrums, and oppositional behaviors, disrupting family harmony and interfering with social interactions. Our child psychologists in McLean are experienced in addressing these complex behaviors through specialized therapeutic strategies.
EFFECTIVE THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES
Our treatment plans are tailored to the needs of each child and may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps children identify their feelings and change negative thinking patterns to improve behavior.
- Family Therapy: Involves family members in sessions to improve communication, solve conflicts, and understand family dynamics affecting the child's behavior.
- Social Skills Training: Focuses on developing essential interpersonal skills, such as empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution.
- Behavioral Interventions: These are designed to teach children how to manage their anger and impulses effectively through practical techniques and real-life applications.
Dr. Nay’s six-step anger program published in Taking Charge of Anger: 2nd Edition (Guilford Press, 2012) is the basis for practical and powerful teaching about regulating anger arousal and altering thinking that fuels anger. New ways of expressing feelings and solving problems without aggression are practiced.
Parenting: Setting Limits and Boundaries
Effective parenting involves setting clear limits and boundaries, which are essential for the healthy development of children and adolescents. At McLean Psychological Practice, we understand that maintaining these boundaries can sometimes be challenging. Our team of experienced child psychologists in McLean is here to guide and support parents in developing effective strategies to foster respect, discipline, and independence in their children.
IMPORTANCE OF LIMITS AND BOUNDARIES
Setting limits and boundaries helps children feel secure and understand their expectations within the family and social settings. Boundaries teach children about appropriate behavior, help manage their impulses, and contribute to their emotional and social growth. These limits also encourage a structured environment where children can learn self-control and accountability.
Depression & Self Esteem
At McLean Psychological Practice, we are dedicated to supporting children and adolescents who struggle with depression and self-esteem issues. Our team of skilled child psychologists in McLean offers compassionate and expert care to help young individuals overcome these challenges and improve their mental health and quality of life.
UNDERSTANDING DEPRESSION AND LOW SELF ESTEEM
Depression in children and adolescents can manifest differently than it does in adults. Signs might include persistent sadness, irritability, withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, and vocal expressions of hopelessness. Similarly, low self-esteem can affect every aspect of a child's life, leading to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and vulnerability to other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression.
CONTINUOUS SUPPORT AND MONITORING
Recognizing that recovery from depression and building self-esteem is an ongoing process, we provide ongoing support, guidance, and periodic assessments. This ensures that our interventions continue to meet the evolving needs of each child and that progress is sustained over time.
Social Skills & Peer Relationships
Social skills are crucial for building and maintaining healthy relationships with peers. These skills include effective communication, empathy, conflict resolution, and the ability to cooperate and work in teams. At McLean Psychological Practice, we specialize in enhancing social skills and improving peer relationships among young individuals. Our skilled child psychologists in McLean are committed to helping your child develop the tools they need to succeed socially and emotionally.
ADD & ADHD: Assessment & Treatment
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are among the most common childhood disorders that can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Symptoms include difficulty maintaining focus, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. At McLean Psychological Practice, we offer thorough assessments and personalized treatment plans for children and adolescents dealing with ADD and ADHD in McLean.
DETAILED ASSESSMENTS TO UNDERSTAND EACH CHILD'S NEEDS
Our initial assessment process is designed to distinguish ADD/ADHD from other potential issues with similar symptoms, such as learning disabilities or emotional disturbances. This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and a deeper understanding of each child’s unique challenges and strengths.
Anxiety Disorders and Fears
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions affecting children and adolescents. These disorders can manifest as persistent worry, fears about specific situations, or general unease that interferes with daily activities. At McLean Psychological Practice, our experienced child psychologists specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of anxiety disorders, helping young individuals lead more confident and less fearful lives.
Anxiety in children and adolescents can manifest in many ways. Common forms include:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): where children experience excessive worry about everyday activities.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: which involves intense fear of social interactions.
- Specific Phobias: focused fears regarding particular objects or situations.
- Panic Disorder: characterized by sudden, recurrent panic attacks that seem to come out of nowhere.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common mental health condition characterized by unwanted and intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that the individual feels driven to perform. At McLean Psychological Practice, our child psychologists specialize in diagnosing and treating OCD, helping young individuals gain control over their symptoms and lead more fulfilling lives.
School Motivation & Homework Issues
Lack of motivation for school and homework issues often stem from a variety of sources, including academic difficulties, underlying learning disabilities, social challenges, or emotional distress. Identifying the root causes is the first step toward effective intervention. Symptoms of these problems might include frequent procrastination, avoidance of schoolwork, declining grades, and negative attitudes toward school.
At McLean Psychological Practice, we understand that difficulties in these areas can lead to stress for both children and their families. Our experienced child psychologists specialize in helping students overcome these obstacles, enhancing their educational experience and overall well-being.
Start the Pathway to Change Today
If you're looking for a child psychologist in McLean who offers comprehensive support and expert care, look no further than McLean Psychological Practice. Reach out to us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment. Let us be a part of your family’s path to a happier and healthier future.
