Author: Laura Nabors

Information for Mental Health Providers Working with Children who have Chronic Illnesses

eBook: US $39 Special Offer (PDF + Printed Copy): US $119
Printed Copy: US $99
Library License: US $156
ISBN: 978-1-60805-891-4 (Print)
ISBN: 978-1-60805-890-7 (Online)
Year of Publication: 2014
DOI: 10.2174/97816080589071140101

Introduction

This eBook provides critical information for mental health providers, including counselors, psychologists, and social workers, who are interested in providing services for children with chronic illnesses. The contents of the eBook focus on enhancing resilience in children with chronic illnesses or medical conditions and their families as they strive to adjust as the child copes with the waxing and waning symptoms of his or her illness. Practical suggestions for working with children and families are also provided along with a thorough review of relevant literature. Readers of this eBook will gain a better understanding of social work and health care issues related to promoting health and wellness among children suffering from long term illnesses. This eBook is also useful for graduate students training to become counselors or therapists.

Preface

Children with medical problems often benefit from psycho-education and support from a mental health services provider. This book takes a broad perspective in reviewing roles for child mental health providers, such as a child psychologist or counselor who is working with children with medical problems. A non-categorical or generalist approach is a focus of chapters in this book, in order to broadly address ideas for mental health practitioners who wish to specialize in interventions for children who have chronic illnesses. Moreover, research examples and case studies also present information on the specific needs of each illness, which may be critical to helping children and their families.

The author’s goal is to provide a perspective and encourage thought about the role of mental health providers in facilitation of the development of children with chronic illnesses as well as their families. Suggestions for working with children and their parents, based on a review of relevant research are presented. An emphasis on supporting the child and enhancing resilience across key contexts for the child is provided. Improving communication between the medical team and school is another goal for improving child functioning. Assessment of child abilities and development of school care plans are steps in optimizing integration in school contexts. In addition, ideas for assisting children and families are presented through a review of case studies developed for teaching purposes (i.e., these are not representative of actual client meetings or contacts). The importance of supporting the family, including siblings and parents, as well as the child with the illness, is emphasized.

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