Why Gifted Kids Need Therapy

As parents, we worry. At times, our children are troubled, upset, or impulsive, and these tendencies make us consider seeking professional gifted therapy. 

However, it is tough to find the right balance between praising a child for being different or when it’s time to worry when you have a gifted child. 

In this article, we’ll look at the different reasons parents of gifted children might seek counseling and how to select the right professional. 

When Should I Seek Therapy or Counseling for my Gifted Child?

Gifted children pose a particular challenge to parents because of their asynchronous development and intensity about different topics. Parents often struggle to figure out whether these signs are markers of giftedness or worrying signs. 

There is no one time when you have to go get counseling for your gifted kid. It depends on what kind of help they need and what is going on. If there are some things happening that you think a therapist could help with, then it might be a good idea to go see one.

• Professionals such as psychologists are an important part of every family. They help children with challenges that they face. Gifted children often enter different developmental phases earlier than other children. They may need help with social skills or staying confident in their goals.
• Some parents of gifted children may use counseling to help their children handle a difficult experience, like losing a family member, being bullied, or moving to a new town. Gifted children can sometimes seem like they don’t have any problems because they are usually more mature and wise than other kids their age. But even though they seem okay on the outside, they may still be struggling on the inside.
• If you’re questioning whether or not to seek therapy for your gifted child, ask yourself these questions:

1. -Does my child struggle in any academic areas?
2. -Do I worry about how my child will handle being different?
3. -Do I feel like my child is too intense about certain things

You know your child best, so if you think that they might need counseling for other reasons, you should talk to a counselor. Some reasons why parents of gifted children might need counseling are listed above.

If you are not sure if you should be worried, you can watch how often the problem happens, how intense it is, and how long it lasts. This will help you decide if you need to see a counselor.

Should there be considerations for the Gifted

Some students may experience having their diagnosis missed or misdiagnosed because they are gifted and have advanced abilities or thinking that may not be related to psychological distress.

That being said, it’s probable they’re hiding behind these masks yet another vulnerability that a skilled therapist or gifted child psychologist can uncover.

Exceptionally gifted students can be difficult to work with. They often have high expectations for themselves. Trying to develop a good relationship with someone who may be using the process to satisfy themselves will be difficult because they may see it as another opportunity to be praised for excellence, which would end therapy prematurely.

On the other hand, these children have high expectations of others. So as kids, they may become disinterested in the learning process if they don’t feel that their intelligence is being valued.

If going to see a therapist was framed as a family adventure, the negatives would be negated. But since being gifted is often seen as different from everyone else, seeking professional help isn’t the same as saying there is something wrong with you.

How Do I Select a Gifted Child Counselor or Therapist?

Gifted therapists or gifted child counselors will be able to offer a means for handling the emotional needs of gifted students. Nevertheless, you may also be asking yourself how to choose the right one for your child. 

You may explore for a therapist, which might take several tries, so that no one gives up until they locate someone who is compatible with their family beliefs and fits within their financial and scheduling constraints.

If you are looking for help with your gifted child, here are some things to think about and questions to ask.

• How does your child feel about this person? The initial bonding process may reveal a lot! Psychotherapy requires your child’s trust, so it will be impossible to gain their full participation without it. They need to feel that they will be respected and listened to when they choose to share their problems.
• You may have a feeling that you shouldn’t work with a certain counselor. This could be because of who they are, how much experience they have, or how they think they can best help your family. You’ll need to consider all of these factors when making your decision.
• Is the therapist familiar with gifted children? If not, is he or she willing to learn more? Unfortunately, most professionals don’t receive any training on gifted children, so you might need to provide a brief overview of what being gifted means. Selecting a school can be challenging, and it helps to know when you don’t need to investigate 

If they reply with answers like “All children are gifted,” they haven’t had the opportunity to study and research different types of intelligence and creativity, which means they may not be a good candidate for the position.

On the other hand, if a school is willing to learn about giftedness and meet the needs of gifted children, it is likely that they will also take the time to get to know your child’s individual strengths and needs.

Davenport Psychology is Here to Help

Davenport Psychology has a long history of helping gifted children. From conducting intelligence and aptitude testing to assisting with anxiety and behavioral issues. 

Sarasota FL & Venice FL psychologists can help your gifted child through therapy and counseling. If you have questions about how we can help your gifted child, contact us today 941-702-2457 for more information.