Ed Psych or Clinical Psych

[fourlegstwolegs]

I don't fully understand the difference. Why would you send your child to one over the other?
My son presents with certain issues at school (inattentive, clumsy, wriggly, lacks focus, emotional) but is generally very happy and kind. I would not say he has mental health issues. School say to use a clinical psych. I think he needs an ed psych. But they don't seem clear on what the difference is... Thank you

Their work can, and does, overlap somewhat. From your description either, or both, sound like they would help.

EPs generally deal with educational problems (for whatever reason - be that emotional problems, ASD, ADHD, learning disabilities or SpLD...) and how to help people learn and cope within schools/education. They generally produce a report that includes recommendations (for both pupil and school) that will help in school and with learning in general. The report may highlight other difficulties too.

CPs generally deal with MH issues, social and emotional difficulties and can help with difficulties due to things like ASD that span across settings. Some specialise in children and education. CPs generally have ongoing sessions or a block of sessions.

Are the school paying for the support? What other support are the providing?

They want me to get him assessed for ADHD - which I think is why they are pushing for Clinical Psych... they have a small number of strategies in place for him but seem very keen that he has a diagnosis of "something"

Has DS been referred to CAMHS or a developmental paediatrician, whoever diagnose ADHD in your area?

School should be providing support for DS. Have you spoken with the SENCO?

He's been on CAMHS waiting list for more than two years now, will probably be at least another year :(
Yes it's the Senco who wants me to send him to a clinical psychologist. They seem to want a diagnosis as the strategies in place aren't much more than what you'd expect in a normal setting (TA, sit him at the front etc)

If you don't wish, are aren't able, to go private, don't be pushed into it. Adjustments should be needs led, so a diagnosis now or in a year shouldn't make too much difference to the support they provide.

Push back to the school. If they can not meet his needs you need to apply for an EHCP. The school could also ask for him to be assessed by an EP, but is probably putting it on you because of their budget.

Do the school have anyone trained in counselling or ELSA?

Not sure we'd get an EHCP as he's at a private school... as far as I know.
Not sure what an ELSA is? I am assuming not a character from Frozen!

ELSA stands for emotional literacy support assistant. They deliver interventions to help social and emotional skills.

You can still apply for an EHCNA at private schools.

If you're looking for a clinical diagnosis then a clinical psychologist. If you're looking for a better understanding of their needs (regardless of diagnosis) and helpful strategies that can be implemented at school (and home) then an Ed psych. Ed psychs will see the child at school whereas most clinicals don't- but private ones might as you're paying for it.

What Mummyshark said.

An EP has an education background.
They can't give you a diagnosis, but can give the school good advice in ways they might be able to support the child if the school are willing, and likely to follow it and they can write reports to help with a statutory assessment if that were appropriate.

A clinical psychologist is medically trained and can give a diagnosis, but wont have the experience and knowledge to share strategies with the school as to how to makes things more accessible for your dc.

There is no reason why it should be one or the other, and not both.

Thank you. This has all been really helpful!