About children
Child psychologists adapt therapy to each age, often using play and drawing, and work closely with parents. Common reasons for consultation include anxiety, fears, behaviour, learning difficulties and family changes. For minors, consent from those with parental responsibility is required.
Psychotherapists are professionals trained in one or more models of psychotherapy (psychodynamic, systemic, humanistic, cognitive-behavioural…). The protected title and requirements vary by country; profiles show each professional’s training and registration.
Getting mental health care in Afghanistan
Public health system · Basic Package of Health Services (BPHS), Ministry of Public Health
Mental health is a component of the Basic Package of Health Services, so primary health care staff are expected to recognise and manage common mental disorders. Psychosocial counsellors work in most comprehensive health centres. WHO describes facilities treating mental health problems as scarce, with shortages of trained counsellors, especially female counsellors, and of psychotropic medicines. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Medical Council of the Ministry of Public Health. The Medical Council of the Ministry of Public Health checks the academic credentials and professional licences of doctors and other health workers, including in private health centres. Ask for the practitioner's ministry licence.
Urgent help in Afghanistan
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 102 · Medical assistance
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: emro.who.int, who.int
Signs to look out for
Children often show distress through behaviour and the body rather than words. It may be worth consulting a professional when a child has persistent fears or worries, frequent tantrums, sleep or eating changes, regression such as bedwetting again, headaches or stomach aches without a medical cause, withdrawal, school difficulties, or after a difficult event such as a separation, a loss or a move.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Therapy with children usually involves parents closely. Evidence-based approaches include cognitive-behavioural therapy adapted to age, parent training programmes, play-based therapy, family therapy and trauma-focused CBT after difficult experiences. Child and adolescent psychologists, clinical psychologists and family therapists are the main professionals; speech therapists, occupational therapists, educational psychologists or child psychiatrists may be involved depending on needs.
When to seek urgent help
Contact your local emergency services if a child is in danger, has been harmed, may have swallowed something toxic, or talks about wanting to die or hurt themselves, even at a young age. If you suspect abuse or neglect, seek help from child protection services or emergency services. Sudden changes in consciousness, speech or movement need immediate medical attention.
What you can do in the meantime
Keep predictable routines for sleep, meals and play, and limit screens, especially before bed. Spend some unhurried time each day with your child, following their lead in play. Name emotions together and stay calm when they are upset. Explain changes in simple, honest terms appropriate to their age. Look after your own well-being too, since children are sensitive to adult stress.
What does a psychotherapist do?
A psychotherapist helps people understand and change emotional, relational and behavioural patterns through a structured therapeutic relationship. Their work is shaped by one or more models, such as cognitive-behavioural, psychodynamic, systemic, humanistic or integrative therapy. They meet individuals, couples, families or groups, usually in regular sessions, and spend time outside sessions on notes, preparation and their own supervision.
When to see a psychotherapist
Psychotherapy suits people who want to work in depth on recurring difficulties: anxiety, low mood, relationship patterns, self-esteem, the effects of past experiences or major life transitions. It can also help when you feel stuck without a clear diagnosis. If you need a formal diagnosis, a specific psychological assessment or medication, a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist may need to be involved.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Afghanistan cover psychological care?
Mental health is a component of the Basic Package of Health Services, so primary health care staff are expected to recognise and manage common mental disorders. Psychosocial counsellors work in most comprehensive health centres. WHO describes facilities treating mental health problems as scarce, with shortages of trained counsellors, especially female counsellors, and of psychotropic medicines.
How do I check that a psychotherapist is licensed in Afghanistan?
Medical Council of the Ministry of Public Health: The Medical Council of the Ministry of Public Health checks the academic credentials and professional licences of doctors and other health workers, including in private health centres. Ask for the practitioner's ministry licence.