How to Choose a Psychologist for Your Child

There's no 'right time' or 'right problem' to see a psychologist. Here are signs to watch for:

• Your child is often sad, withdrawn, or has lost interest in things that used to bring them joy
• Changes in sleep, appetite, or frequent complaints of physical pain without medical causes
• School conflicts: trouble with friends, fighting, aggression toward peers or teachers
• Intense anxiety about school, social situations, or certain environments
• Difficulty with focus and attention, forgetfulness, despite your efforts to help
• Recent major stress: parental divorce, relocation, loss of a loved one, school change

If you recognize yourself in any of these — this isn't a diagnosis, it's a signal that professional support can help. A psychologist will help you understand and find solutions.

Not all psychologists are the same. Here's what makes a specialist the right choice for your child:

Don't hesitate to ask. Here are questions that help you make the right decision:

1. What's your experience with a problem similar to ours?

   Ask for specific examples and success stories. Experience with similar cases is a good sign.

2. What methods do you use?

   Expect a clear answer: CBT, play therapy, family work. If the answer is vague, that's a reason for caution.

3. How often do you meet with parents?

   The recommended standard is at least once a month or at the end of each session. Regular parent contact is the foundation of progress.

4. How long does treatment typically take?

   An honest answer sounds like: 'It depends on the issue and the child, but usually 3-6 months, then we reassess.' Be concerned if they talk about a year or more without a plan.

5. How often do you communicate with teachers or other specialists?

   A good psychologist will collaborate with the school if needed and coordinate with other professionals.

6. What if treatment doesn't help?

   Check if they're willing to adjust the method or refer to another specialist. That's a sign of professionalism, not failure.

7. What do you expect from parents between sessions?

   Homework, practice, behavior monitoring — these are part of the process. Expectations should be clear and realistic.

8. Can we try one session before committing to a package?

   Many psychologists offer a trial session. This lets you and your child see if this specialist is right for you.

Here's what makes my practice special and why families trust me with their children:

• 25+ years of experience working with children and teens in Rishon LeZion and internationally
• Ph.D. in Psychology, licensed specialist with ongoing advanced training
• Deep expertise in anxiety, behavioral issues, autism, and ADHD — I know these areas inside out
• I combine evidence-based methods (CBT, play therapy) with warmth and human understanding
• I always meet with parents and involve you in the process — you're partners, not spectators
• Transparent communication: I explain what's happening, why, and where we're headed
• I work in Russian, Hebrew, and English — important for many families in Israel
• Flexible options: in-person sessions in Rishon LeZion and online consultations for convenience
• I continuously learn and update my knowledge to give you the best support

The first session isn't a diagnosis with conclusions — it's the beginning of a conversation. Here's what happens:

• I welcome you warmly and without judgment — you come as you are
• I ask detailed questions about your child, family history, and what brought you here
• I explain how I understand the situation and offer first impressions or observations
• We discuss which methods I'll use and why they fit your situation
• We agree on scheduling, costs, and details of working together

No need to prepare or worry. The first session is just a conversation that will leave you with much more understanding than when you started.