I'm taking my five-year-old son to a psychiatrist this week. We'd had hoped to find other treatment, but it looks like this is what he needs for his ADHD and ODD.

What can I expect the visit to be like? What questions should I ask the doctor? Any advice?

Any questions you have write them down so you don't forget to ask them. Make sure you mention any concerns you're having too. If you want to try another approach as well, ask. I got a great recommendation from my son's psyc for a play therapist. Since people in this field tend to know others, it's a good place to start.

Thanks. My son saw a psychologist, who thinks play therapy wouldn't work for him (he has ADHD and ODD) -- but it's a good idea to ask if the shrink can think of anything else to try, as well.

It's a fine line to walk. Wanting to make sure you're doing everything you can to help your kid, while at the same time not wanting to waste time (and money) on bunk.

I'm curious as to why the psyc doesn't think play therapy would work for your son.

His big problems are his lack of impulse control and his aggression. I guess she thinks play therapy won't help with those. She does play therapy, so I appreciate that she's referring us to someone else -- although we can, and will, continue to see her, as well. I think.

Impulse control was an issues here (aggression still is), and we've also moved onto other things as well. While play therapy hasn't made it all better, it has helped a lot. After several sessions working on control, we noticed he is doing much better and trying.
*shrugs*

I guess it all depends on the child and the therapist.

Interesting! I'll keep it in mind.