About behavioral problems
Tantrums, defiance or aggressive behaviour that are frequent and intense can strain family life. Interventions usually involve the parents, with practical strategies for routines, limits and communication, and work with the child adapted to their age.
Clinical psychologists are psychologists with specialist training in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health problems, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. In some countries it is a regulated health specialty; Therapy247 checks the registration.
Getting mental health care in Iceland
Public health system · Primary health centres (heilsugæsla) and Sjúkratryggingar Íslands (Icelandic Health Insurance)
Primary health centres offer psychological services, and adults can get subsidised sessions with a psychologist contracted to Icelandic Health Insurance with a referral from a health centre (up to 12 sessions; children up to 10). Psychiatric care is provided at Landspítali and by private psychiatrists. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Directorate of Health (Embætti landlæknis). Psychologist is a licensed health profession: using the title and practising requires a licence from the Directorate of Health. Search the official register
Insurance and coverage
Icelandic Health Insurance subsidises sessions only with contracted psychologists and with a valid referral (from a health centre for adults; a health centre or diagnostic team for children), up to 12 sessions for adults and 10 for children.
Urgent help in Iceland
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 112 · Emergencias
- 1717 · Hjálparsími Rauða krossins 1717
- 1799 · Píeta – hjálparsími
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: island.is, island.is, island.is
Signs to look out for
All children test limits and have tantrums at times. It may be worth seeking help when defiance, aggression, intense tantrums, lying, breaking rules or destructive behaviour are frequent, last for months, happen in several settings such as home and school, and cause problems with family life, learning or friendships. Sudden changes in behaviour can also signal stress, anxiety or difficulties elsewhere.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Parent training programmes based on behavioural principles have strong evidence for children’s behaviour problems. Family therapy and cognitive-behavioural approaches for the child or teenager, including emotional regulation and problem-solving skills, also help. Child and adolescent psychologists, clinical psychologists, family therapists and educational psychologists usually lead the work. An assessment can identify contributing factors such as ADHD, learning difficulties or anxiety.
When to seek urgent help
Contact your local emergency services if a child or teenager is seriously hurting themselves or others, has a weapon, is missing, or talks about suicide. Seek urgent help too if you suspect drug use with signs of intoxication. If you feel you might lose control and harm your child, step away safely and seek support immediately; asking for help is responsible.
What you can do in the meantime
Notice and praise specific good behaviour, and spend a little one-to-one time each day doing something your child enjoys. Keep rules few, clear and consistent between adults, with calm, predictable consequences. Avoid shouting and physical punishment, which tend to worsen behaviour. Look after your own stress and sleep, and talk to the school to work together.
What does a clinical psychologist do?
A clinical psychologist assesses, diagnoses and treats mental health problems in children, adults or older people. Day to day they conduct clinical interviews, use validated questionnaires and tests, formulate what keeps the problem going, and deliver evidence-based therapies. They often work in hospitals, community mental health teams or private practice, and coordinate with psychiatrists, family doctors and social services.
When to see a clinical psychologist
A clinical psychologist is a good choice for moderate to severe or persistent difficulties: anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive problems, trauma, eating disorders, personality difficulties, or when a formal diagnosis or report is needed. If medication may be needed or there is a risk to safety, a psychiatrist should also be involved. For coaching or personal growth, other professionals may fit better.
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 Iceland cover psychological care?
Primary health centres offer psychological services, and adults can get subsidised sessions with a psychologist contracted to Icelandic Health Insurance with a referral from a health centre (up to 12 sessions; children up to 10). Psychiatric care is provided at Landspítali and by private psychiatrists.
How do I check that a clinical psychologist is licensed in Iceland?
Directorate of Health (Embætti landlæknis): Psychologist is a licensed health profession: using the title and practising requires a licence from the Directorate of Health.