As a parent, seeing your child struggle socially and academically can be difficult. Once he/she receives a diagnosis following a psychological assessment you may feel a sense of relief because there is a reason for these struggles. At the same time, knowing what to do next can be daunting.

Here are 5 tips to help you access support for your child and yourself.

  1. Share the report with your child’s school.
  • If you are comfortable sharing the information in the report it is advisable to share it with the school. This will ensure your child has access to the support he/she needs. The school has its own procedures in place so that an individual education plan (IEP) can be created for your child on the basis of the report.
  • The report will contain many helpful recommendations for the school to follow.
  1. Share the report with your child’s doctor.
  • If you are considering medication, it will be important to visit your child’s doctor to discuss the options that are available. Medication is not a “one size fits all” solution and may require some trial and error. Depending on the severity of your child’s condition and the symptoms they are experiencing, therapy and medication may be the best treatment approach.
  1. Connect with a parent support group.
  • Many parents themselves experience a range of emotions after their child has received a diagnosis. Joining a group with other parents who have gone through a similar experience can be helpful. This can be an opportunity to share stories, ask questions and get answers.
  1. Read books and check out online resources.
  • The psychologist, your child’s teacher and/or physician can recommend books and websites with helpful information for you. Find out which ones are reputable, with evidence-based treatment approaches.
  1. Look into community agencies that offer resources for parents and children.
  • Many of the agencies that are government funded have lengthy waitlists so make sure to get on the list right away. This way you can access free supports for yourself and your child. This may include therapy (individual, group, family etc.), parent groups and or further treatment/assessments.

Alter, Stuckler & Associates are a team of registered psychologists and a social worker that provide compassionate psychological care. We have provided service to individuals, couples and families from Thornhill, Markham, Vaughan and throughout the Greater Toronto Area for more than 30 years. Have a question for our team? Contact us today.