Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
We emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan based on the individual needs of the patient and their family. All treatment starts with a comprehensive initial evaluation including a full psychological assessment, as well as detailed academic, physical, social and family histories. Based upon the recommendations of the consultation team, a unique treatment plan is designed for the patient and family that includes specialized programs for:
- Academic Difficulties
- ADHD
- Disruptive Behavior
- Anxiety Disorders
- Mood Disorders
We take a multidisciplinary approach that includes social skills building (individual and group work), executive skills training, parenting training, mindfulness training, school interventions, and possibly medications to help with focus and impulse problems. Specialty psychotherapies are geared towards impulsive behaviors, emotion dysregulation, inattention, prior trauma, generalized worry, OCD, school phobia, social anxiety, fears of public speaking and selective mutism. We provide CBT, DBT, or an integrative approach, all of which will include family involvement.
For all children we treat there is a generalized focus on wellness which includes sleep hygiene techniques, proper diet and nutrition, study habits, and exercise recommendations. We are very conservative with our use of medications in children, but when indicated families are always fully apprised of any potential risks and benefits and remain involved in the decision-making process from the outset.
