Child and Adolescent Psychologist: How to Find a Specialist and Compare Terms
Where to start: say what is worrying you
You do not need to know a diagnosis, it is enough to describe the situation: fears after moving house, anxiety, aggression, conflicts at school, difficulty paying attention, the loss of someone close. The more specific the request, the easier it is for a psychologist to say whether the case suits them and to suggest a way of working. If you suspect a disorder such as ADHD or autism, a doctor makes the diagnosis, and the psychologist helps with behaviour and support.
The child's age decides the methods
With younger children, psychologists often work through play, drawing, sand therapy or art therapy, because it is hard for them to put feelings into words. With teenagers they talk more, using a cognitive behavioural approach (CBT) and some coaching. Sometimes a family session, working with the parents, is right too. Ask the psychologist how they build their work and whether they involve the parents.
Online or in person
Online is convenient for teenagers and for families who live far away: no travel, and it is easier to find a specialist with the right focus. Small children do better with an in-person meeting in an office or at home, because play methods are hard to move onto a screen. You can also agree on the language of the sessions, for example English or another language.
How to compare offers
- education and specialisation: child psychology, experience with a particular issue;
- length of session and price: for one session or for a package;
- whether there is a first introductory meeting and how much it costs;
- rules on confidentiality and the parents' involvement;
- reviews and real recommendations.
On BlaBlaPrice you do not need to browse profiles: you write one request, and psychologists reply in the chat with the price, schedule and approach. They see where they stand among the others and compete on terms, and reviews are shown beside the offers. Your phone number stays hidden, and only the specialist you choose gets your contacts. More on the How it works page.
What to put in your request
- topic — fears, anxiety, behaviour, school, loss;
- child's age;
- format — online or in person, at an office or at home;
- number of sessions — a single consultation or a course;
- method — play, art therapy, CBT, sand therapy, family sessions;
- specialist's experience — with particular needs;
- city, language, time;
- budget per session.
Example: “I am looking for a child psychologist for a 7-year-old: fears after moving house, trouble falling asleep. In person in Tsuen Wan, art therapy or play methods, after 4 pm on weekdays, in English or another language. Budget up to HK$140 per session.”
For adults and families, see psychologist services, and if you need a doctor, medical services.
Before the first meeting, tell your child where you are going and why, without frightening them. Do not expect instant change: a psychologist usually asks for a few meetings to understand the situation.
