seeking recommendations for child psychologist for MCPS student

[Anonymous]

We have a child in a MCPS elementary school (K) who is experiencing behavior problems (impulsivity, defiance, and inappropriate attention seeking behaviors). The school has recommended family counseling and having the child visit a behavioral psychologist. Does anyone out there have any recommendations for good therapists or psychologists we might contact?

[Anonymous]

I recommend talking to Alvord Baker and Associates. They have a staff of psychologists and offices in Silver Spring and Rockville.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We have a child in a MCPS elementary school (K) who is experiencing behavior problems (impulsivity, defiance, and inappropriate attention seeking behaviors). The school has recommended family counseling and having the child visit a behavioral psychologist. Does anyone out there have any recommendations for good therapists or psychologists we might contact?

You might also consider ADD or other neuropsych evals as the symptoms you mention can also be associated with organic illness/disorders which family therapy and "behavioral psychologist" would be unqualified to diagnose or treat. A psychiatrist or neuropsychiatrist specializing in kids would be needed to rule out any organic brain issues (ADD, bipolar, anxiety, etc.) before proceeding solely with family therapy or a behavioral psychologist.

Based on personal experience, it sucks be a kid called to task for inappropriate behavior and forced into counseling to deal with it, when what is really needed is medication (and counseling).

Kind of like sending a diabetic to counseling so he/she will stop passing out.

On the other hand, if there are other obvious family issues that are more clearly the root of behavior, then counseling/family therapy might be the right way to go.

Just something to consider.

[Anonymous]

Your child should have a thorough evaluation by a highly skilled child clinical psychologist as a starting point for intervention. I recommend Dr. Susy Thomas at Chesapeake ADHD Center in Silver Spring: 301-562-8448. Good luck!