Treatment for Encopresis & Enuresis
DR. JOHANNA
BERGER,
Clinical Psychologist
I specialize in treating elimination disorders, including encopresis and enuresis. I am experienced in helping children who have coexisting concerns, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).
Encopresis (soiling) and enuresis (daytime or nighttime wetting) are more common than people generally realize. However, without proper treatment, children may continue to struggle for years, having accidents that negatively impact them and their families. I specialize in addressing these toileting difficulties using an evidence-based and individualized approach.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I will teach your child tools to address his or her fecal or urinary incontinence. Many children feel embarrassed or shameful regarding their toileting difficulties. My compassionate approach addresses these emotions, along with related unhelpful thinking patterns. Behavioral modification strategies are often utilized to help address disruptive behavior patterns, including toileting refusal. Your child will learn or relearn effective toileting habits. We will discuss strategies that address stool withholding. Mindfulness training may be incorporated into treatment, particularly when helping children who simultaneously struggle with inattention or emotion regulation.
To facilitate change, parents are actively involved in treatment. A parent's commitment to learning new techniques and effective ways to support their child’s therapeutic process is often instrumental to making long-lasting change. For example, parents will learn how to effectively reinforce their child's efforts and adaptive toileting behaviors.
I take a holistic approach, which can increase therapeutic effectiveness by addressing for instance, maladaptive sleep, exercise, and eating habits. Furthermore, to best help your child, I collaborate with other medical professionals, including pediatricians, pediatric urologists, and pediatric gastroenterologists.
Often in life, taking the first step on a new path brings feelings of uncertainty. That’s understandable. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation and will gladly do my best to answer any questions and concerns. If I believe another psychologist can better assist your child, I will give you a referral. I’m here to help. I look forward to discussing your options with you.