My adoptive kids need counselling

Q. I am a mother of four. Actually, two are mine and two adopted. They are now between nine and 15 years old. I am able to take care of all the children financially, as I have a thriving business. The 13- and 15-year-old are not mine. They are giving me no ends of talking. Can I, as a private citizen, seek help from the government to get them counselling?

A. Yes, you can go to the children's services and get help for your children. It is very good that you have sought to take this step. Remember to be patient with the teenagers as they are going through a lot at this stage of their lives.

Banned from school due to mental problem

Q. My daughter has been diagnosed with a mental-health problem. The high school she attends does not want to take her back. Isn't this against the law?

A. All children are entitled to get full educational and counselling support services while attending schools. There should be a meeting with the guidance counsellor to determine what type of help your child will need. If it includes medication, the school nurse should be notified. A written plan should be completed and placed on your child's file to ensure he or she receives full support services while at school.

Lock issue

Q. My 15-year-old son wants to wear dreadlocks. I told him he cannot do so while in my house. His father, who does not live with us, has told him he does not have a problem with it. I cannot allow this as I do not believe in it. How do I work this out?

A. As long as your son lives in your house, and you are providing for him, he needs to respect the rules of your household.

Orlean Brown-Earle, PhD, is a child psychologist and family therapist. Dr Brown-Earle works with children with learning and behaviour problems throughout the island and the Caribbean. Email questions to helpline@gleanerjm.com or send to Ask the Doc, c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston. Responses to concerns are to be considered as general, as cases shared with psychologists privately would be queried more deeply. Pray always!