Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Children and adolescents experience mental health difficulties in ways that can differ significantly from adults. Emotional, behavioral, and psychological concerns must be understood within the context of ongoing development, family relationships, school environments, and social experiences.
With specialized fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and board certification in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, I bring a developmental perspective to the evaluation and treatment of younger patients. Care takes into account not only the symptoms being experienced, but also the developmental, biological, psychological, and environmental factors that may contribute to them.
Our Approach to Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
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Psychiatric concerns are evaluated in the context of each child's developmental stage, individual history, family circumstances, school experiences, and social environment. Understanding these factors is essential to distinguishing developmental variations from symptoms of psychiatric conditions.
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Medication recommendations are based on a thorough understanding of the child's symptoms, developmental needs, psychiatric and medical history, and previous treatment experiences. Treatment response, potential side effects, and ongoing developmental considerations are carefully evaluated.
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Treatment recommendations are tailored to each child's age, developmental needs, symptoms, and circumstances. Medication management is the primary service offered for children and adolescents, with consideration of the broader therapeutic and environmental factors that influence mental health.
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Parents and caregivers provide important perspectives on a child's history, behavior, and functioning. Their involvement can be an important part of understanding concerns and supporting treatment, while also recognizing the developing autonomy and individual needs of the child or adolescent.
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When appropriate and with appropriate authorization, collaboration with therapists, school personnel, and other healthcare professionals can help provide a more complete understanding of a child's needs and support coordinated treatment.