All parents struggle to deal with children’s emotional and behavioral development. Once emotional issues start to impact performance within the school, home, and/or social setting, psychology care is the only care that is required. At Orlando Premier Psychiatry, we have a compassionate and caring medical staff that provides mental health services specifically for teenagers.
Families should be aware of the distinction between a child psychologist and a psychiatrist, and select the appropriate treatment. While therapy is essential, pediatric medical treatment will focus on biological, neurological and emotional issues in order to develop a comprehensive treatment program. In the long-term, we will have caring professionals who will support your family as they move towards healing and growth.
What is Child Psychiatry?
Child Psychiatry is a specialty of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents. The brain development of a youth is an ongoing process and a psychiatric approach would need to be developmental and consider the developmental age, family influences and school environments.
Whether your child has trouble paying attention, is on the verge of a mood swing or is feeling anxious, the first step to your child’s long term health and wellness is a thorough medical evaluation. Often, parents find themselves asking what child and adolescent psychiatry is and how it is different than adult care. Pediatric specialists also have extra training to learn about the unique ways in which psychiatric diseases will present in children.
Common Signs and Symptoms in Children
If you are knowledgeable on how to spot the signs, then you can play a role in helping them get the assistance they need from the onset and it will definitely help them in the long run. Mood swings are a natural part of growing up and if they do persist for longer, it may be necessary to consult with a medical practitioner.
Key Behavioral & Emotional Indicators:
- Sudden and Unusual Mood Changes: If the sadness and/or irritability are not related to a specific event and are going on for weeks, there is a sudden and unusual change in mood.
- Academic Decline: Persistent poor academic performance, repeated referral to a class teacher or failure to be motivated to do schoolwork.
- Social withdrawal: withdrawal from friends or from others outside the family, total withdrawal.
- Hyperactivity & Impulsivity: Difficulty with sitting still, difficulty with concentration or impulsivity – may require a specialist to diagnose (psychiatrist may diagnose adhd).
- Changes in Habits: Sudden changes to sleep or eating habits that can lead to fatigue and discomfort.
- Spied: Frequent concerns that interfere with or inhibit functioning or social interaction.
As soon as possible, advice will be given on these signs, so that your child’s learning and developmental development are not affected.
Conditions We Treat
Our qualified medical staff provides treatment for many children’s and youth’s illnesses and adopts evidence-based care:
- Hyperactivity, inattention and/or impulsivity: With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) it is important for youth to learn how to manage their focus, impulsivity and executive functioning skills.
- Anxiety Disorders: Contemporary treatment for generalized anxiety, panic and social anxiety.
- Depression & Mood Disorders: Comprehensive strategies are offered for teens who experience a longer time of sadness or mood swings.
- Behavioral & Conduct Issues: Strategies for families who have oppositional behavior and/or emotional regulation problems.
- Trauma & Stressor Related Disorders: supporting children on the road to recovery, following stressors in their lives and/or trauma.
Comprehensive Evaluation and Treatment Options
Each child has an individualised care plan which takes into account their strengths and individual needs. A comprehensive clinical history starts with an official psychiatric assessment in order to correctly distinguish symptoms, medical history and objectives.
Integrated Care Approaches:
- Pediatric Assessment: Thorough evaluation of the child, parent and sometimes the teacher.
- Medication Management: Safe prescribing and administering of medication (if applicable) and monitoring. If parents are aware of the type of medication treatment their child is receiving they rest assured that all medication is being monitored.
- Family Involvement: Involving parents/carers in effective practice at home to support their child’s emotional development.
- Adolescent Specialty Care: specialized care for transitions for teens, e.g. adolescent psychiatry.
Serving Central Florida Families
Orlando Premier Psychiatry is committed to making quality health care services available to anybody and everybody in Central Florida. We care for a number of surrounding communities around the region:
- Child Psychiatry in Kissimmee, FL
- Child Psychiatry in Deltona, FL
- Adolescent Psychiatry in Sanford, FL
- Telehealth Psychiatry Options for flexible, virtual appointments from home.
Take the Next Step for Your Child’s Well-Being
Your child’s emotional health and development deserve expert, compassionate support. If you wish to schedule a consultation with Orlando Premier Psychiatry, contact our office today.
Call Us Today to Schedule an Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary role of a pediatric mental health specialist?
A paediatric mental health specialist assesses, diagnoses and treats mental health problems in children and young people. They take into account physical, psychological and social aspects to develop treatment plans that can include therapy recommendations and medical management.
How do I know if my child needs professional care?
If emotional/behavioural difficulties last for a few weeks they may affect school performance, impact family life or cause significant distress – a professional evaluation is advised to ensure an early support response which addresses root causes of the difficulties.
What should we expect during the first evaluation?
The first assessment covers in detail your child’s medical history, developmental progress, emotional responses and behaviour. Parents/caregivers play an important role in developing a true individualized care plan.
Is medication always required for treatment?
No, it’s not always a must for medication. Treatment is tailored, and can involve behavioral interventions, therapy recommendations, or lifestyle modifications. Medication should only be recommended when clinically appropriate to the overall well being of your child.
Can we access care virtually if we cannot visit in person?
Yes, you can have a lot of appointments virtually. Telehealth services are convenient for follow-up visits, ongoing consultations and medication review, thus providing ongoing support to your child from home.
