5.4 - Getting Help

school psychologist

A professional who specializes in the assessment of learning, emotional, and behavioral problems of school children.

clinincal psychology

a branch of psychology that studies, assesses, and treats people with psychological disorders

counselor

a person trained to give guidance on personal, social, or psychological problems.

psychiatrist

a physician who can diagnose and treat mental disorders

neurologist

a physician who diagnoses and treats disorders of the brain and nervous system

psychiatric social worker

a professional who provides guidance and treatment for emotional problems in a hospital, mental health clinic, or family service agency

cognitive therapy

a treatment method designed to identify and correct distorted thinking patterns that can lead to feelings and behaviors that may be troublesome, self-defeating, or self-destructive

behavior therapy

a treatment process that focuses on changing unwanted behaviors through rewards and reinforcements

psychotherapy

an ongoing dialogue between a patient and a mental health professional

drug therapy

the use of certain medications to treat or reduce the symptoms of a mental disorder

group therapy

treating a group of people who have similar problems and who meet regularly with a trained counselor

family therapy

treatment that works by helping the family function in more positive and constructive ways by exploring patterns in communication and providing support and education

the root of most adult mental-health disorders

untreated childhood and adolescent problems

reasons to seek help

• Feeling trapped or worrying all the time • Feelings that affect sleep, eating habits, schoolwork, job performance, or relationships • Becoming involved with alcohol or other drugs • Becoming increasingly aggressive, violent, or reckless