Who should come to appointments, and what should I bring?

Introduction

This article outlines who should attend consultations at the Quirky Kid Clinic and what information is helpful during the intervention process. Understanding these aspects will help you prepare effectively for your appointments and contribute to a more productive therapeutic experience.

Who Should Attend?

Initial Session

For the initial session, we recommend that only parents or carers attend. Unless there is acrimonious parental conflict, both parents or carers should be present. This arrangement allows our psychologists to gather comprehensive information about your child's situation and ensure consistency in planning future interventions.

We understand that sometimes both parents or carers cannot attend the first session. In such cases, we can arrange:

• Individual sessions with each parent or carer
• Telephone or video consultations
• Brief Reports reports

Subsequent Sessions

After the initial consultation, your psychologist will advise who should attend future sessions. Depending on the treatment plan, this may include your child, one or both parents or other relevant family members and school.

What Should I Bring?

To make the most of your consultation, come prepared. Here are some items you should consider bringing:

1. A clear summary of your concerns:

   Prepare a concise list of your main concerns about your child. This will help you communicate effectively with your psychologist and ensure that all important points are addressed.

2. Relevant past reports: If you have any previous reports about your child from other professionals (e.g., teachers, paediatricians, or other psychologists), these can be very useful. They provide a clearer developmental picture and help your psychologist understand past interventions and their effectiveness.

3. Pen and paper:

   Bring a pen and paper to take notes during the session. This can help you remember important points or questions that arise during the consultation.

4. Avoid bringing siblings

   To ensure you make the most of your time, please arrange child care if you have other children.

Conclusion

Attending a psychology consultation can feel overwhelming, but being prepared can make the process smoother and more productive. By knowing who should attend and what to bring, you're taking an important step in supporting your child's wellbeing. If you have any questions about preparing for your appointment, don't hesitate to contact the Quirky Kid Clinic for guidance.