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.
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 Jamaica
Public health system · Ministry of Health and Wellness and Regional Health Authorities
Public mental health care is delivered through the Community Mental Health Services of the regional health authorities. A 2017 government task force found that some regions had no public-sector psychiatrist and only one region had a child and adolescent psychiatrist. It recommended strengthening community services and integrating mental health into primary care.
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Council of Professions Allied to Medicine (as named in press reports). Licensure became mandatory for all psychologists and counsellors on 1 April 2016. It requires a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited university and 4,000 clinical hours, and unlicensed practice can be sanctioned. Ask to see the current licence.
- Medical Council of Jamaica. All doctors must be registered with the Medical Council before practising in Jamaica.
- Council of Professions Supplementary to Medicine. Speech and occupational therapists must be registered with their council before practising in Jamaica.
Urgent help in Jamaica
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 110 · Fire / Ambulance
- 888-639-5433 · Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline (888-NEW-LIFE)
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: past.jamaica-gleaner.com, past.jamaica-gleaner.com, moh.gov.jm
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 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 Jamaica cover psychological care?
Public mental health care is delivered through the Community Mental Health Services of the regional health authorities. A 2017 government task force found that some regions had no public-sector psychiatrist and only one region had a child and adolescent psychiatrist. It recommended strengthening community services and integrating mental health into primary care.
How do I check that a psychotherapist is licensed in Jamaica?
Council of Professions Allied to Medicine (as named in press reports): Licensure became mandatory for all psychologists and counsellors on 1 April 2016. It requires a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited university and 4,000 clinical hours, and unlicensed practice can be sanctioned. Ask to see the current licence.