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Behavioural Difficulties

Private treatment, therapy and support for behavioural difficulties in London at Schoen Clinic Chelsea

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we're committed to helping individuals facing challenging behavioural issues find effective solutions and support. Whether you or a child or loved one is experiencing difficult behavioural issues, getting to the root cause or working to help address them can be a complex and often isolating experience.

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What causes challenging behaviours?


Behavioural challenges in both adults and children can arise from a variety of factors, and it's often a complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and environmental influences.

Biological factors such as genetics can be a contributing factor in developing challenging behaviours, and those who already have existing mental health issues such as ADHD and autism spectrum disorder may exhibit challenging behaviours.


These behaviours are often rooted in childhood, so a difficult family or early school environment, or a delayed development can also be a primary cause. Those who have had difficult trauma are also more susceptible to developing challenging behaviours.


Challenging behaviours are highly unique so an individual's response to stress, certain personality traits, and lifestyle factors such as substance abuse and sleep deprivation can also play a part in the development of these behaviours.


As a team of mental health specialists, our therapists, counsellors and healthcare professionals have years of experience in addressing a range of challenging behaviours with empathy and evidence-based interventions, underpinned by compassionate care.


If you're looking for a medical diagnosis, information about difficult behavioural challenges, or a treatment plan, don't hesitate to get in touch, and our team can help you live a better life.


What are the most common symptoms of behavioural difficulties?


The exact nature of challenging behaviours is dependent on individual circumstances, experiences, and demographics.


In children, this can be tantrums, ranging from mild to extreme, usually from children expressing frustration or demanding attention. Oppositional defiant disorder, or ODD, is characterised by defiance, and general disobedience, that is outside the norms of just being ‘naughty’.


In teens, this can progress as defiance against authority figures, parents or caregivers, or the government. This is a normal part of independence and development, but extremes may present in some individuals. Alternatively, social withdrawal can also be problematic, with teens wanting to isolate themselves from social or family circles, often owing to conditions like anxiety or depression. Risk-taking behaviour can accompany both of these behaviours, such as experimenting with substances.


In adults, challenging behaviours are usually more deep-seated in other issues, such as wider substance abuse, or behavioural issues owing to social challenges such as difficult relationships.


Whether in children or adults, behavioural difficulties can often be a manifestation of underlying mental health issues, changes in personal environment, or social circles. Professional guidance can help in understanding and addressing these behaviours effectively.

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If you need support for yourself or a loved one with behavioural difficulties, please reach out to our caring team in London today. We have appointments available in as little as 24 hours so you can begin treatment with minimal wait.


To access private treatment as swiftly as possible, simply fill out our online pre-screening questionnaire at any time to suit you.

What type of therapies work best for behavioural difficulties?


Several types of therapy can be effective for addressing behavioural difficulties, depending on the specific needs and circumstances of the individual. Psychotherapy sessions provide a supportive and confidential environment for individuals to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.


CBT is an effective and commonly used therapy to help in the treatment of behavioural challenges. CBT is a talking therapy which aims to break down problems into smaller ‘chunks’ to make coping more manageable. CBT focuses on current problems, unlike some therapies which focus on the progression from past issues. It’s an evidence-based treatment which is shown to work in many cases, but as your treatment plan is unique, it might involve other therapies such as group therapy, or mindfulness.


Some therapies we commonly use at Schoen Clinic Chelsea include:


  1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. It helps individuals develop coping skills and strategies to manage their emotions and behaviours more effectively.

  2. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) / Behaviour therapy: ABA is often used to address behavioural challenges in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental disabilities. It involves breaking down behaviours into smaller components and using reinforcement techniques to promote positive behaviour changes.

  3. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): DBT is a type of therapy that combines cognitive behavioural techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. It is particularly helpful for individuals struggling with emotional regulation and interpersonal difficulties.

  4. Family therapy: Family therapy can be beneficial when behavioural difficulties are impacting family dynamics. It helps families improve communication, set boundaries, and work together to address issues effectively.

  5. Play therapy: Play therapy is often used with children to address behavioural difficulties in a developmentally appropriate way. It allows children to express themselves through play and helps therapists understand and address underlying issues.


These are just a few examples of the types of therapy that we use to address behavioural difficulties. The most appropriate approach will depend on the individual's specific needs, preferences, and circumstances, and may involve a combination of different therapies.


Getting treatment for difficult or challenging behaviours in London


Schoen Clinic Chelsea in London offers a diverse range of evidence-based treatments to address various mental health disorders.


Following a compassionate and bespoke diagnosis, our team of specialists collaborates with you to develop a personalised treatment plan to help you overcome your (or a loved one's) behavioural difficulties. This may include psychotherapy, the use of medication to alleviate symptoms, or a combination of both, depending on the nature and severity of the disorder.


This holistic approach emphasises the importance of lifestyle modifications, coping skills development, and ongoing support to empower individuals on their journey toward mental wellbeing and recovery.

Getting a diagnosis for a behavioural difficulty


The first step to recovery for those suffering from behavioural challenges is an accurate diagnosis by a trained medical professional. At Schoen Clinic in Chelsea, our experienced team of mental health professionals employs a multidisciplinary approach, working with the relevant specialists in multiple disciplines to use a combination of diagnostic assessments, clinical interviews, and collaborative discussions to get a quick and accurate diagnosis.


Through a thorough assessment, we aim to understand the unique circumstances, symptoms, and contributing factors associated with each person's mental health challenges. This process ensures a tailored and precise diagnosis, allowing us to develop a personalised treatment plan unique to you, that addresses your specific needs and challenges. We recognise the importance of considering biological, psychological, and social factors in the diagnostic process, fostering a holistic understanding that guides our therapeutic interventions.

Recovery from behavioural challenges is possible with the help of a team of specialists


If you're dealing with a loved one who has challenging behaviours or behavioural difficulties or are suffering from them yourself, it can be an overwhelming experience. These issues can severely impact mental well-being, work, personal life, and relationships, but at Schoen Clinic Chelsea, our dedicated team is committed to supporting individuals through these trying times.


Our professionals specialise in helping individuals navigate and manage challenging behaviours or behavioural difficulties. We are here to provide the necessary diagnosis and appropriate medical treatment to address any distressing thoughts you may be grappling with. Whether it involves a combination of medication and therapeutic interventions or other personalised approaches, our dedication is to guide you towards a path of full recovery, and a happier life.


Take the first step towards overcoming challenging behaviours or behavioural difficulties with specialised treatment at Schoen Clinic Chelsea. Contact our compassionate team at 0203 146 2300 or email us for exceptional private mental healthcare.

Our mental health specialists with expertise in treating behavioural difficulties


It's possible to transform those with behavioural challenges, whether it'd you or a loved one. Our specialist team will put together a personalised treatment plan and provide expert guidance alongside caring support to guide you on a journey to a healthier and happier life.


Learn more about the team, or get in touch to book an appointment with your chosen specialist below.

Dr Edel McAndrew

Consultant Clinical Psychologist

Dr Edel McAndrew

Dr Katherine Coutsoudis

Chartered Psychologist

Dr Katherine Coutsoudis

Dr Daniel Masud

Consultant General & Addictions Psychiatrist | ADHD Specialist

Dr Daniel Masud

Lia Brown

Psychotherapist

Lia Brown
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