Psychological consultations
At the Early Intervention Centre every child, together with their parents, is cared for by a psychologist. The aim of the meetings with the psychologist is to gather important information about the child’s development so far and to make an initial assessment of the current stage of their cognitive, emotional and social development. The assessment is based on an interview, observation, selected clinical tasks and, where needed, standardised diagnostic methods (intelligence tests, developmental scales, questionnaires). An initial assessment of the child’s abilities and developmental needs is essential for setting the goals of the therapy programme within their zone of proximal development. Regular follow-up consultations with the family’s psychologist are used to monitor the child’s development, to keep parents informed about the therapy process and to adapt the forms of support flexibly to the changing needs of the children in our care. Parents receive support in their parenting skills and advice on how to support their child’s development at home. The psychologist also gives them information about available health services and educational programmes for children with developmental difficulties.
Psychological therapy
Psychological therapy focuses on stimulating and supporting the development of the young child. By working with therapists, the child gradually learns to take part in group sessions and to work independently with a therapist.
By working on separation and developing the child’s concentration, awareness and understanding, we aim to support the process of gaining new experiences and acquiring new skills.
The therapy is first and foremost meant to support the patient’s development in the areas where they experience difficulties, to support the parents’ work and to give them guidance for working outside the Centre as well.
By working with the therapists and receiving instructions, parents can learn about possible ways of supporting their child’s development at home.
The psychologist also works on the child’s healthy emotional development, the acquisition of social skills and adaptation to functioning in a group. Any challenging behaviour shown by the child can be discussed with the psychologists in order to agree on a consistent strategy for calming and reducing such behaviour.