How to Explain a Psychologist to a Child

Parenting
March 26, 2025

Explaining what a psychologist is to a child can be tricky because the word itself has multiple meanings. 

A psychologist can be someone who studies the human mind and behavior, or it can be someone who helps people deal with mental health issues.

But in general, a psychologist is someone who understands why people do the things they do, and who can help them change their behavior if they want to.

If you're talking to a child about psychologists, it's important to make sure they understand that psychologists are there to help people and that they're not there to hurt them. 

Explain That a Psychologist is Someone Who Understands Why People Do the Things They Do and Can Help Them Change Their Behavior if They Want To

Some ways you can phrase this to a child are:

  • "Psychologists help people who have problems. Sometimes people have problems because of the way they think, and a psychologist can help them understand why they think that way and how to change it."
  • "A psychologist is someone who understands how people's minds work. They can help people who are having trouble understanding why they do the things they do."
  • "A psychologist is someone who helps people who are having trouble with their emotions. They can help people understand why they feel the way they do, and how to deal with those feelings."

These are just a few ideas to get you going on how you can talk about a psychologist. If you want to use a character from a popular show they are familiar with, feel free! Just be sure to explain it in a way they will understand. 

a father holding his daughter

A Psychologist is Not Someone Who Hurts People or Does Anything to Hurt Them, But Rather Helps Them With Mental Health Issues

It's important that the child feel safe. 

Reassure them that a psychologist is not someone who hurts people or does anything to hurt them, but rather helps them with mental health issues. 

This can be done by saying something like:

  • "Psychologists are not bad people. They are there to help people who have problems. They would never do anything to hurt you."
  • "A psychologist is not someone who is going to hurt you. They are there to help people who have trouble with their emotions."
  • "A psychologist is not going to do anything to you that will make you feel bad. They want to help you understand why you think and feel the way you do."

If the child has any questions, be sure to answer them in a way that is age-appropriate and easy for them to understand. 

A Person Who Studies the Human Mind and Behavior

A psychologist can be someone who studies the human mind and behavior or someone who helps people with mental health issues, but in general, they are someone who can help explain why we do the things we do.

Explain that a psychologist is a person who professionally researches, and studies the human mind and behavior.

If a Child is Ever Feeling Lost, Confused, or Like They Need Help, Tell Them That a Psychologist Can Help and Be There For Them

There are ways you can convey why a psychologist is needed. It's important to help a child envision scenarios when someone might need a psychologist. 

Here are a few ways to phrase such an idea.

  • "If you're ever feeling lost, confused, or like you need help, remember that psychologists are there to help. They can help you understand why you feel the way you do and how to deal with it."
  • "If you ever need someone to talk to, a psychologist can be a great person to talk to. They will listen to you and help you understand your thoughts and feelings."
  • "Psychologists are people who can help you if you're feeling lost, confused, or like you need help. They can help explain why you feel the way you do and how to deal with it."

These are just a few examples of what you can say to a child about psychologists.

If you have any ideas to share, please comment on those ideas below. 

a woman sitting in a chair in an office

Are You Looking for a Psychologist for Your Child? 

If you think your child might need to see a psychologist, there are a few things you can do.

First, you can talk to their pediatrician. 

They may be able to give you some referrals for child psychologists in your area.

You can also look online for psychologists who specialize in working with children. 

Many of them have websites that you can browse through.

When you're looking for a psychologist, it's important to find one who is a good fit for your child. 

You may want to read reviews of different psychologists or even ask around to see if anyone you know has recommendations.

Remember, there are many different types of psychologists, so it's important to find one who specializes in working with children and who has the right personality to work well with your child. 

With a little bit of research, you should be able to find a great psychologist for your child.

Disclaimer

Please remember that the information in this article is for informational use only, and should be used as a substitute for medical advice.

If you need professional help please contact a licensed medical professional who can help you.

FAQs

Q: Do Psychologists Ever See Children?

A: Yes, psychologists often see children as patients. In fact, there are many psychologists who specialize in working with children.

Q: What Should I Look for When Choosing a Psychologist for My Child?

A: There are a few things you should look for when choosing a psychologist for your child. First, you should make sure that the psychologist specializes in working with children. You may also want to read reviews or ask around for recommendations. Additionally, it's important to find a psychologist who has the right personality to work well with your child.

Q: Can Psychologists Help My Child?

A: Psychologists can help children in many ways. They can help them understand their thoughts and feelings, cope with difficult emotions, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Additionally, psychologists can provide guidance and support to parents. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, psychologists can be a great resource for children and their families. 

If you think your child might need to see a psychologist, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

If you need to explain a psychologist to a child, then explore the ideas mentioned and see if that helps them understand.

This is just a start, if you need more guidance, reach out to a professional who can provide you with more resources.

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

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