Child Psychiatry

As children and adolescents grow and mature, their mental health plays a leading role in shaping their well-being. Based in Boca Raton, Florida, Mdesarmes Psychiatry, LLC, provides expert child psychiatry services via telehealth under the guidance of board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Michelle Desarmes, PMHNP-BC. Call the practice or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is child psychiatry?

Child psychiatry focuses on mental health care and support of children and adolescents. It involves diagnosing and treating their unique emotional, psychological, and developmental needs, typically up to 18 years old.

At Mdesarmes Psychiatry, LLC, child psychiatry specialists work closely with children, adolescents, and their families to assess and address many mental health problems.

Whether your child is experiencing behavioral difficulties, mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, compassionate mental health specialists are committed to providing effective, age-appropriate care to help them thrive and reach their full potential.

What are the most common mental health conditions in child psychiatry?

Mdesarmes Psychiatry, LLC, provides care and support for many mental health conditions in children, including:

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder affecting behavior, focus, impulse control, and organization in people of all ages. Providers most often diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents.

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders manifest as excessive worry, fear, and unease. Many children experience generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias, or separation anxiety.

Depression

Persistent sadness, changes in sleep or appetite, loss of interest, and low energy are symptoms of depression in children.

Substance use disorder

While substance use disorder is more common in adults, adolescents can also become reliant on prescription medications, illegal drugs, and alcohol.

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

ODD is characterized by defiant behavior and hostility toward authority figures, often leading to challenges in relationships and daily interactions.

Conduct disorder (CD)

CD is a more severe condition involving persistent aggressive and antisocial behavior patterns, including breaking the rules and violating others.

I scheduled a child psychiatry evaluation. What can I expect?

A child psychiatry evaluation at Mdesarmes Psychiatry, LLC, is a positive step toward addressing your child's mental health and well-being.

The initial consultation includes a complete review of your child’s medical history, behavioral patterns, and any concerns you have about their emotional or psychological well-being. You can also share insights into your child’s behavior, emotions, and challenges at home, school, and social settings.

Your provider will also observe your child’s behavior and could consult with their school and other behavioral health professionals and caregivers to gather enough information for an accurate diagnosis.

Once your child is diagnosed, your provider can prescribe medication, schedule follow-up therapy appointments, and recommend other appropriate treatments.

Call Mdesarmes Psychiatry, LLC, today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about child psychiatry.