If your teenaged son has had difficulty adjusting to his new school, you may be concerned that his grades will begin slipping or that he will fail to form bonds with his peers. A careless attitude, snide comments, and a failure to divulge how he is feeling or what he is experiencing each day may cause great concern. When a communication problem begins to disrupt your normal routine, it is time to seek guidance from a professional. Set up a consultation with a child psychiatrist to help uncover what is going on with your son.

A One-On-One Session Will Be Conducted

You probably remember how you felt as a teenager. Privacy is one of an adolescent's biggest concerns and your son may not think that it is 'cool' to sit down and discuss his inner thoughts with you. When dealing with a child psychiatrist, he will have the opportunity to speak candidly and he won't need to worry about receiving negative feedback that could crush his ego.

A psychiatrist will gently probe your child for information and this process may not seem intimidating or pushy. The person who conducts the consultation may nod their head or use direct eye contact to demonstrate that they are fully involved in what your son is relaying. This approach may result in your loved one pouring out his heart and expressing his fears and feelings of inadequacy.

During the initial consultation, you may not be involved in the actual session. The psychiatrist will aim to gain your son's trust and this must be done in a private setting that your child feels comfortable in. During subsequent appointments, you may be briefed on what type of issue exists. Additionally, you always have the opportunity to call the psychiatrist on the phone, if you have a concern about your son's behavior or the manner in which he handles an issue at school.

Small Goals Will Be Presented

If your child does not have a mental problem that requires medication and is receptive to what the psychiatrist verbalizes to them, small goals may be presented. These goals will assist with curbing your son's negative behavior, encouraging him to open up to others, and focusing on his studies. A person's behavior cannot change in one day and it requires perseverance to make positive changes. One small goal may be presented initially and subsequent goals that are slightly larger may be presented, if the psychiatrist thinks that your son is ready for more challenges.

For more information regarding child psychiatric services, contact someone like Linet Les.