Understanding Your Child’s Mind

Exploring the World of Child Psychology

Discover the complexities of child psychology to better understand and support your child’s mental and emotional development.

Parents and clinician in a case consultation.

Explore the World of Child Psychology

Child psychology is a branch of psychology focused on the mental, emotional, and behavioral development of children from birth through adolescence. Child psychologists help identify and address various developmental challenges, such as autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Understanding how our brains work is essential for promoting healthy development and wellness for children and families. As shown in this video by Dr. Marcy, one skill psychologists teach is how to speak kindly to ourselves and let go of past mistakes. Click play to learn how!

Key Features of Child Psychology

Diagnostic Assessments

Comprehensive evaluations to identify developmental and psychological conditions early, ensuring timely intervention and support.

Therapeutic Approaches

Utilizing evidence-based therapies to address emotional and behavioral issues, promoting mental well-being in children.

Importance of Early Intervention

Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children with developmental and psychological challenges.

Parental Guidance and Support

Providing parents with the tools and knowledge to effectively support their child’s unique needs and foster a nurturing environment.

What Child Psychologists Do

Join Dr. Willard as she explains what a child psychologist does for families and kids. A child psychologist is different from a counselor or a social worker, although they all have important roles in our community. Dr. Willard explains how child psychologists traditionally come from a scientist-practitioner model, which means they are scientists first and practitioners second. It is a child psychologist’s responsibility to give evidence-based information and recommendations. Listen to explore whether a child psychologist is right for your family.

Insights and Advice for Parents

Autistic Trauma: What It Is and How to Help

A new understanding of autistic trauma has emerged in the research. Dr. Tasha Oswald's presentation on autistic trauma at a recent conference provided invaluable insights into the often-overlooked experiences of autistic individuals. As a psychologist in the autism field, I was struck by her emphasis on moving beyond the medical model and embracing a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Here’s a look at the recent research on autistic trauma treatment, based on Dr. Oswald's important work.

Organization of Materials in Childhood

Is your child showing up to events a day late and a dollar short? This article explores the challenges many children face with organization, and the impact it has on their lives at home and at school. It also discusses the reasons why organization can be difficult, and offers parents and caregivers practical strategies for helping children develop these essential skills. Read on to learn more about how you can support your child’s organizational journey.

Reading Comprehension in Childhood

Is your child not understanding what they read? This article explores reading comprehension in childhood, offering insights into why some children struggle and providing practical strategies for parents to support their child's reading journey. Discover how to foster a love of reading and empower your child to become a confident and engaged reader.

Hygiene in Childhood

Is your child showing up with stinky breath and a dirty shirt? This article explores childhood hygiene, offering insights into why some children may struggle with it and providing practical tips for parents to support their children in developing healthy habits. Read on to learn more about fostering good hygiene practices in your child.

Eye Contact in Childhood

This article discusses the role of eye contact in childhood social communication. It emphasizes that while eye contact can be a valuable tool for connection and engagement, it's not the only way to communicate, and children may have different comfort levels with it. The author cautions against forcing eye contact or over-analyzing its absence. Ultimately, the article promotes understanding and acceptance of individual differences in communication styles, emphasizing the importance of connection and celebrating each child's unique strengths.

Creative Play in Childhood

This article explores creative play in childhood, where imagination knows no bounds. Discover the benefits of creative play, potential challenges some children may face, and practical strategies to nurture your child's blossoming imagination. Join us on this journey to unlock the magic of creative play in childhood.

Response to Name in Childhood

This article explores the importance of children responding to their names, which is a key indicator of social engagement and communication. It also discusses potential challenges and practical strategies to help your child develop this crucial skill.

Rigid Behavior in Childhood

Children are known for their strong wills and passionate preferences. While a healthy sense of self is important, sometimes a child's insistence on having things their way can become excessive, leading to rigidity and inflexibility. This can be challenging for both the child and their family.

Handwriting Issues in Childhood

Handwriting is a skill that can be challenging to some children. In this article, learn how you can support your child if they are struggling with their handwriting. We'll explore why handwriting can be harder for some children, discuss possible reasons why, and offer practical tips you can use to help your child improve their handwriting.

Voice Quality in Childhood

This article explores the typical and atypical qualities of a child's voice, as well as the potential causes and how to best support your child.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Unlock the potential in your child’s future with expert guidance from Marcy Willard, PhD. Whether you’re seeking answers or support, our specialized services in child psychology are here to help. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can assist your family in navigating challenges with confidence and care.