Every parent wants the best for their child, including access to the support they need for their mental and emotional well-being. For parents from non-English speaking backgrounds, navigating child psychology services can be challenging due to language barriers and unfamiliarity with the healthcare system. This guide aims to provide you with the information and resources necessary to access these services for your child.
Understanding Child Psychology
Child psychology focuses on the mental, emotional, and behavioural development of children. Psychologists can help with a range of issues, including:
- Emotional Difficulties
- These can include but not limited to persistent sadness, excessive worry, frequent crying, or severe fears that interfere with daily activities, etc.
- Behavioural Problems
- These can range from aggressive behaviour, and frequent temper tantrums, to trouble following rules at home or school.
- Learning Difficulties
- Examples include but are not limited to difficulty concentrating on tasks or falling behind academically despite adequate effort.
- Social Challenges
- These include difficulty making friends, avoiding social interactions, trouble understanding social cues, or experiencing bullying, etc.
Please remember that every child is different, and their challenges can vary widely. Some children may face mild issues that are resolved quickly, while others might need long-term support. Further to this, there is evidence to suggest that children from non-English speaking backgrounds may have specific types of concerns and influences on their mental health. The way these children and their families present to, or access, services is also likely to differ from children from English-speaking backgrounds.
Steps to Access Child Psychology Services
1. Identify the Need
Look for signs that your child might need psychological support. These can include changes in behaviour, mood changes, withdrawal from social activities, bed wetting, or difficulties in school. For school age children, collecting information on school behaviour from teachers can assist with identifying any mental wellbeing needs.
2. Consult with Your Child’s Pediatrician or General Practitioner (GP)
Your child’s doctor can be a valuable resource. They can help identify the need for psychological services provide referrals to specialists and link parents with services for people with non-English speaking background.
3. Seek Translation and Interpretation Services
The Free Interpreting Service is designed to ensure equitable access to essential services for individuals with limited or no English proficiency. This service is provided by TIS National on behalf of the Australian Government.
For more information, please visit: https://www.tisnational.gov.au/Free-Interpreting-Service
4. Find a Psychologist
Look for a psychologist who has experience working with families from diverse backgrounds. Your child’s school, local community centres, or religious organizations might have recommendations. You can also use online directories or contact local mental health organizations for assistance. These directories can help with find a bilingual psychologist that speaks a specific language. Directory created by Australian Psychological Society can assist with this.
For more information, please visit: https://psychology.org.au/find-a-psychologist
5. Understand Your Rights
Understanding your rights when accessing child psychology services is crucial, especially if English is not your first language. You have the right to receive language assistance, including interpreters, to ensure clear communication with healthcare professionals. Your child’s health information is confidential, and you can expect culturally sensitive care that respects your beliefs. You also have the right to ask questions, seek second opinions, and advocate for your child’s needs.
6. Insurance and Financial Assistance
Check if your health insurance covers child psychology services. If not, ask about payment plans or sliding scale fees based on income. Explore community programs and non-profit organizations that offer free or low-cost mental health services. The following are some examples for some funding schemes and free services:
- https://headspace.org.au
- https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/Pages/services-camhs.aspx
- https://www.ndis.gov.au
Overcoming Common Barriers
Language Barriers
Always request an interpreter if you are not comfortable communicating in English. There are services offer phone-based or in-person interpretation at no extra cost to you.
Cultural Differences
Mental health can be perceived differently across cultures. Share your cultural background and beliefs with the psychologist to ensure culturally sensitive care. Look for psychologists who are culturally competent and have experience working with diverse populations.
Lack of Information
Educate yourself about mental health through reliable sources available in your language. Websites of national health organizations often have translated materials. Attend community workshops or support groups that discuss mental health topics where you can.
Stigma
There can be stigma associated with seeking psychological help. Understand that mental health is a crucial part of overall well-being and seeking help is a positive step. Talk openly with your family about the benefits of psychological support.
Accessing child psychology services may seem daunting, but with the right information and support, you can ensure your child receives the care they need. Utilise available resources, ask for language assistance, and remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and commitment to your child’s well-being.
Resources:
- https://emergingminds.com.au
- https://d2p3kdr0nr4o3z.cloudfront.net/content/uploads/2022/11/30110915/How-experiences-influence-CALD-CMH_FINAL-1.pdf
- https://www.verywellmind.com
- https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Diversity_and_Culture_in_Child_Mental_Health_Care-118.aspx
- https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0018/177102/culturally-linguistically-diverse-children-and-their-families.pdf
