Tag Archives: mental health

When Christian parents should seek out a Christian mental health professional

Posted on July 5, 2011 by Dr. G

Another situation in which parents of Christian kids should appropriately seek out a therapist with a Christian background occurs when a significant faith component exists to emotions, thoughts or perceptions that are a focus of concern to the parents. Continue reading →

Posted in Controversies, Families | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Should Christian Parents Only Use Christian Mental Health Professionals?

Posted on July 2, 2011 by Dr. G

I think the critical issue for parents who have a kid in need of mental health care is finding a clinician with a track record of demonstrating excellence in what they do, regardless of that person’s belief system. Continue reading →

Posted in Mental Health, Parents, Strategies, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Depression and Comorbidity in Children and Adolescents

Posted on May 18, 2011 by Dr. G

Children and youth who meet criteria for a full-fledged episode of Major Depression are especially prone to comorbid mental health disorders. The slide below illustrates some of the most common comorbidities associated with depression in children and teens. Depending upon the practice setting, as many as 90% of kids with depression have at least one comorbid condition, while 50% experience two or more conditions. Continue reading →

Posted in ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Hidden Disabilities, Key Ministry, Resources | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

“Comorbidity”…When Kids Have More Than One Disorder

Posted on May 12, 2011 by Dr. G

The concept of comorbidity is important to understand because it helps to explain why kids who carry the same diagnosis may react very differently to environments or experiences at church, why we very much try to avoid the use of diagnostic labels when working with churches and why it is so important for ministry leaders and parents to view each child as a unique individual.
Continue reading →

Posted in ADHD, Controversies, Hidden Disabilities, Key Ministry, Resources | Tagged , , , , , , | 8 Comments

When should a family seek professional help for their child?

Posted on February 2, 2011 by Dr. G

Pastors and ministry leaders are often the first resources parents turn to for advice when their child is in the midst of a significant emotional or behavioral crisis. I’m going to periodically post resources here to help church staff get parents pointed in the right direction when they’re seeking the right help for their kids.

When a parent calls me, the very first question I try to help them answer is whether their child needs professional help. I’ll do that by asking the parent the following series of questions:
Continue reading →

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