Elodie Vandenbergh
Hong Kong based French Psychologist
Specialization in neuropsychology
Psychotherapist EMDR – CBT
Psychotherapy
Area of Expertise:
a semantic issue
Difference between psychiatrist, psychologist and psychotherapist
Psychiatrists are doctors who specialise in mental health. After completing medical studies, they specialise in psychiatry. They are qualified to diagnose and treat mental disorders and can prescribe medication.
Psychologists generally have a degree in psychology. They are not doctors and cannot prescribe medication. Their main role is to assess, help with diagnosis and treat psychological and emotional problems.
Psychologists may have different specialisations in their expertise (clinical, psychopathology, cognitive, neuropsychology, work, etc.).
The term ‘psychotherapist’ refers to a professional trained in psychotherapy. There are different types of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, EMDR, psychoanalysis, EFT, etc.
A psychotherapist may be a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional with specific training in psychotherapy.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a psychological approach that aims to change dysfunctional thoughts and behaviours. It is based on the idea that our thoughts affect our emotions and actions.
In CBT, the therapist helps the patient to identify negative thought patterns, challenge them and replace them with more realistic and positive thoughts.
It is often used to treat disorders such as anxiety, depression and phobias, and focuses on practical techniques and exercises that promote behavioural change and improved emotional well-being.
EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a form of psychotherapy. It is based on the idea that unresolved trauma can cause emotional and physical symptoms.
In EMDR, the patient recalls traumatic memories while undergoing guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. The aim of this process is to desensitise the individual to the painful memories and to encourage an adaptive processing of the information.
EMDR has been shown to be effective in helping people overcome traumatic experiences and reduce associated anxiety.
Psychological Assessment & Cognitive Remediation
What is a psychologist specialized in neuropsychology?
A neuropsychologist is a psychologist who specialises in the study of the relationship between the brain and behaviour. They assess and treat cognitive, emotional or behavioural disorders resulting from brain dysfunction. These disorders are often related to trauma, stroke, neurodegenerative diseases or developmental disorders.
With the help of psychometric tests and clinical assessments, the neuropsychologist identifies cognitive disorders and designs appropriate rehabilitation programmes and/or helps the patient adapt to his or her environment, particularly at school in the case of specific learning disorders.
Why do a psychological assessment for my child?
A psychological assessment of a child may be essential for several reasons:
IDENTIFYING DISORDERS: It helps to identify specific learning or developmental disorders, such as specific learning disability in reading (formerly dyslexia) or ADHD.
ASSESSMENT OF DISABILITIES: The assessment evaluates the child's cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention and reasoning, to gain a better understanding of his or her intellectual functioning.
EARLY INTERVENTION: Early diagnosis can lead to appropriate interventions that promote the child's optimal development and reduce the long-term impact on their schooling, psychological development and daily life.
EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT: The results of the assessment can help to make educational adjustments to enable the child to be more integrated and successful in school.
UNDERSTANDING BEHAVIOUR: An assessment can also shed light on challenging behaviour by identifying the underlying cognitive causes.
What to Expect from a Psychological Assessment
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS
REPORT
RECEPTION OF EXTERNAL INFORMATION
ASSESSMENT
MEETING WITH CHILD AND PARENTS
Example of follow-up after a psychological assessment
COGNITIVE REMEDIATION
PSYCHOTHERAPY
PARENTAL GUIDANCE
Parental
Guidance
Parental guidance is a supportive and compassionate approach that helps parents in their journey, without judgment. It offers them advice tailored to their needs and those of their children.
Objectives of Parental Guidance:
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Reinforce parenting skills
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Improve communication between parents and children
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Prevent difficulties and address existing issues
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Promote the emotional and social development of the child
This approach covers various topics such as behavior management, discipline, promoting autonomy, and emotional regulation. In this safe space, parents can express their concerns and feel supported in their role.
Each family is unique, so parental guidance takes into account the specific needs of each parent and child. It considers the child as a whole, integrating their physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs for balanced development.