ATTACHMENT PROBLEMS
If a child has moved between parents or lost a parent in early life, this may cause long term social
difficulties or emotional difficulties if the loss is not worked through.
ADHD
A child may be hyperactive for a number of reasons. The psychologist can take a history and observe
patterns of behaviour, in different contexts, to decide if he /she has a hyperactivity disorder.
AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDERS.
There are a number of difficulties in behaviour, speech, learning and play which make up this group of
developmental disorders
LEARNING DIFFICULTY
The child may have specific problems such as learning to read or do maths. He may have a problem
with remembering information or understanding. The psychologist may use an IQ test which gives an
indication of the type of problem , advising on what steps to take next.
DYSLEXIA
This is a specific learning difficulty to do with reading and consequently, writing. There are particular
tests which indicate how severe the problem is and what help is required.
DYSCALCULIA
This is the label for a specific difficulty in learning mathematics.
DYSPRAXIA
This is a physical difficulty which often results in poor speech and/or writing. In severe cases the child
will need help from either a Speech Therapist or an Occupational Therapist.
PDA
Demand avoidance can result from social or emotional problems or it may be a developmental
disorder identified by Dr Elizabeth Newson as Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome. A
psychologist will give practical advice on how to handle the child, once observations have determined
the nature and severity of the problem.
BEHAVIOURAL OR EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS
The psychologist can work with the child, the parents or all the family together to help in understanding
and dealing with the problem. She is skilled in working with children and teenagers with these difficulties.
