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Child & Teen Psychiatry

Child and teen psychiatry focuses on the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and their families. Our psychiatrist is specially trained to recognize how emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges present at different ages, and to provide treatment that supports your child's growth, well-being, and success at home and school.

When Child & Teen Psychiatry May Help

Child and teen psychiatry may be helpful for young patients who are experiencing:

  • Persistent anxiety, excessive worry, or frequent meltdowns beyond what is expected for their age

  • Sadness, withdrawal, or loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed

  • Difficulty focusing, staying organized, or completing schoolwork

  • Behavioral challenges such as defiance, aggression, or frequent conflicts at home or school

  • Social difficulties, including trouble making or keeping friends

  • Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy that seem out of the ordinary

  • Exposure to trauma, bullying, or major life changes such as divorce or loss

  • Thoughts of self-harm or statements about not wanting to be alive

If you are concerned about your child's emotional or behavioral health, an evaluation can provide clarity and direction.

What We Review During the Visit

Your provider will review your child's:

  • Current concerns — including specific behaviors, emotions, or symptoms that prompted the visit, as described by both the parent and the child

  • Developmental history — including milestones, early childhood experiences, and any prior diagnoses or evaluations

  • Academic and social functioning — how your child is performing in school and interacting with peers and family

  • Medical history — including current medications, past treatments, and any relevant medical conditions

  • Family history — since many mental health conditions can run in families

  • Home and social environment — including family dynamics, stressors, and available support systems

Initial evaluations typically last 60 to 90 minutes. Parents and caregivers play an active role in the visit, and older teens may also have time to speak privately with the provider.

Your Child's Treatment Plan

After the evaluation, your provider will:

  • Share their clinical impressions and explain any diagnoses in clear, understandable terms

  • Discuss treatment options, which may include medication, therapy, school-based accommodations, parenting strategies, or a combination of approaches

  • Address your questions and any concerns about medication safety or side effects in children and teens

  • Collaborate with your child's pediatrician, therapist, school counselor, or other providers as needed

  • Schedule follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust the plan as your child grows and their needs evolve

Our goal is to partner with your family to help your child thrive, emotionally, socially, and academically.

Schedule an appointment with Santana Mental Health Services to speak with a provider specialized in minors and get the support your child needs.

Expert mental health care, covered by insurance.

At Santana Mental Health, we work with leading insurance plans to make high-quality care accessible and affordable. Don’t see your plan listed? Reach out—our team will gladly check your benefits and help you get started.

Expert care, no matter what you're facing.

Take the First Step

Take the first step toward clarity and support. Schedule your first evaluation with Santana Mental Health Services today.

Knowing what your service may cost shouldn’t be a mystery. Estimate your cost below.

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