Child & Family Psychology at Lumina
Families play a critical role in shaping the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children. They provide children with a sense of identity, security, and belonging, as well as a context for understanding and interpreting the world around them.
How we can help
The neurology, neuropsychology and psychology team at Lumina can support children and families across the spectrum of psychology and child development, including:
- Socialisation – families are the primary socialising agents in children’s lives, and play a crucial role in teaching children the norms, values, and behaviours that are appropriate
- Emotional support – children who feel secure and loved are more likely to develop positive self-esteem, self-worth, and resilience.
- Attachment – children who have a secure attachment to their primary caregivers are more likely to have better mental health and emotional well-being.
- Discipline, setting appropriate boundaries and providing guidance for behaviour
- Education, and supporting the family role in learning, reading, and other academic activities
- Role modelling behaviour and attitudes that influence children’s development
- Cultural transmission, and the cultural context in which children are raised shapes their development in many ways
Achieving good outcomes
Child psychologists use a variety of strategies to achieve good outcomes for children. These include:
- Family-centred care, recognising that families play a critical role in the care and success of children and working closely with them to provide support and guidance.
- Evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, hypnotherapy, family, and play therapies
- Collaboration with other professionals such as paediatricians, teachers, and school counsellors, to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the child’s needs in multiple areas of their life
- Positive reinforcement: Child psychologists often use positive reinforcement techniques to help children learn new behaviours and coping strategies.
- Cultural sensitivity, considering cultural context and its impact on the child’s development and behaviour and provide culturally sensitive and responsive care