Health Services & Behavior Therapy For Kids
Pediatric Behavioral Health Specialists in Parker, CO
Our pediatric psychology program is designed to support the unique needs of children, adolescents, and families who are current patients. We provide comprehensive psychological evaluations for a range of pediatric mental health concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and learning difficulties. We also offer a variety of therapeutic services to help children and families build skills and manage challenging behaviors. Our team is committed to providing high-quality, short-term, and compassionate care to every family we serve. We work closely with other healthcare specialists to ensure a holistic approach to each child’s well-being.
What is Behavioral Therapy For Kids?
Behavioral therapy for kids is a type of treatment that helps children change their behaviors and improve their emotional well-being. It focuses on identifying and modifying negative behaviors and reinforcing positive ones. Techniques often include positive reinforcement, modeling, and teaching coping skills.
Behavioral therapy can be effective for various issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems at home or school. The main goal of our specialist is to help children develop healthy behaviors, improve social skills, and enhance their overall functioning.
How Often Are Integrated Behavioral Health Appointments?
Our pediatric psychology program is designed to support the unique needs of children, adolescents, and families who are current patients. We provide comprehensive psychological evaluations for a range of pediatric mental health concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and learning difficulties. We also offer various therapeutic services to help children and families build skills and manage challenging behaviors. As a primary care pediatric practice, we aim to improve difficulties within 20 bi-weekly sessions. We then work with the family to transition to check-in sessions four to six times a year, as needed. Our psychologists, counselors, and medical providers regularly collaborate to provide patients with the most comprehensive care possible. Our team is committed to providing high-quality, short-term, and compassionate care to every family we serve.
Mental Health Crisis Help
9-8-8 has been designated as the new three-
Colorado Crisis Services – Colorado Crisis Services is the statewide behavioral health crisis response system offering mental health, substance use or emotional crisis help, information and referrals.
What Are The Mental Health Assessments for Children That We Offer?
At Parker Pediatrics, we offer mental health assessments for children. Our mental health professionals have experience working with children and can provide an accurate diagnosis. If your child is diagnosed with a mental health disorder, we can create a treatment plan to help them manage their symptoms.
ADHD Testing for Children
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that can cause problems with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. If you suspect your child has ADHD, our team can provide a psychological assessment. We will ask questions about your child’s behavior and how they interact with others. We may also administer a series of tests to help us better understand your child’s symptoms. After the assessment, we will work with you to create a treatment plan for your child.
Anxiety Screening for Children
Anxiety is a normal part of childhood. However, some children experience anxiety to a degree that it interferes with their daily lives. If you are concerned that your child’s anxiety is impacting their ability to function, we offer anxiety screenings. During the screening, our mental health professionals will ask questions about your child’s symptoms and how they have been affecting your child. We will also observe your child’s behavior. Based on the screening, we will make recommendations about the next steps, which may include a more comprehensive evaluation or therapy.
Depression Screening for Children
Depression is a mental illness that can make children sad, hopeless, and lose interest in things they used to enjoy. If you have concerns that your child may be depressed, we provide depression screenings. Our mental health experts will ask questions about your child’s symptoms and how they’re affecting your life during the screening. We’ll also watch how your kid behaves. After the exam, we will give recommendations on the next steps, including a more extensive examination or therapy.
How Can Mental Health Affect Child Development?
Mental health disorders can impact every area of a child’s life. They may have difficulty in school, making friends, or behaving differently than other children their age. If left untreated, mental health disorders can lead to problems in adulthood. That’s why it’s important to seek help during adolescence if you think your child is struggling. Our team can provide the support your family needs to help your child thrive.
The Sleep Foundation says that certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder, are closely associated with sleep disorders. Mental health and behavioral issues can interfere with a child’s daily life by causing them to miss school, exhibit out-of-control behavior or mood swings, and withdraw from social interactions.
When Should You Consider Behavior Therapy For Kids?
As a parent, it can be difficult to tell if your child is displaying symptoms of a mental health disorder. Many children go through rough patches or periods of adjustment, and it can be hard to know if their behaviors are just part of growing up or cause for concern. If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, it’s important to seek professional help. Look for persistent changes in behavior, such as excessive anger, sadness, or anxiety that interfere with daily life. Additionally, if your child is struggling with school, relationships, or self-esteem, these may be signs that professional intervention is needed. Early intervention with behavior therapy can provide your child with the tools and support they need to manage their emotions and behaviors effectively.
Pediatric Therapy Services in Parker, CO
In addition to mental health assessments and screenings, we offer a variety of therapeutic services to help kids and families build skills and manage challenging behaviors. Our therapists work with children, adolescents, and families to address a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems.
Pediatric Behavioral Health FAQ
There are many things parents can do to support their child’s mental health issues. First, it’s important to be there for your child and provide a listening ear, showing empathy and understanding. Encourage your child to express their feelings, whether through talking, writing, or creative activities like drawing. Additionally, help your child find healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, spending time with friends, or engaging in hobbies. Providing a stable and supportive home environment with consistent routines can also significantly contribute to your child’s emotional well-being.
Many factors can affect a child’s mental health. Genetic predisposition and brain chemistry play a crucial role in how a child experiences and manages emotions. Life experiences, such as trauma, bullying, or major changes like moving or divorce, can have a significant impact on a child’s mental health. Family history of mental health issues can increase the likelihood of similar challenges in children, making it important to be aware of any familial patterns. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as chronic illnesses or developmental disorders, can affect a child’s mental health, requiring comprehensive care.
Recognizing the warning signs of mental illness in children is vital for early intervention. Changes in behavior, such as withdrawing from friends and activities, or excessive crying and mood swings, can be indicators. Physical symptoms like unexplained headaches or stomachaches, along with changes in sleep patterns or appetite, may also signal a problem. Difficulty concentrating, declining school performance, and expressing feelings of hopelessness or excessive worry are additional warning signs that parents should be aware of.
If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, the first step is to talk to your pediatrician. They can help determine if your child would benefit from a referral to a pediatric mental health professional. A mental health professional will assess your child and provide a diagnosis based on their specific symptoms and behaviors. If they recommend behavioral therapy, they will create a treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs, which may include various techniques to help them learn healthy coping mechanisms and manage their symptoms. Regular follow-ups and adjustments to the therapy plan can ensure that it remains effective as your child grows and their needs evolve.
How Parker Pediatrics Can Help
The pediatricians at Parker Pediatrics can help detect, diagnose, and address many integrated behavioral and mental health issues affecting children today. Pediatricians are in a unique position to observe a child’s development over the years, and have the training and expertise to detect signs of behavioral and mental health issues in children and adolescents. Our pediatricians and team of pediatric professionals work to serve our patients in all areas of their healthcare, including children’s behavioral health services.
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