​Who is a child psychiatrist

A child psychiatrist is a doctor who, after studying medicine, specializes in the care of the mental health of children and adolescents. He therefore understands not only the psychological difficulties that can occur in children, but also has the ability to prescribe medication if they are really needed. His task is primarily to understand the child's situation, offer a way to relieve it, and recommend possible cooperation with other experts.

Part of the work of a child psychiatrist is not only the examination itself in the form of an interview, but also education provided to parents and children, recommendations for adjustments to the daily routine, advice on communication and support, and possibly even recommendations for appropriate medication.

When is it appropriate to see a child psychiatrist

Parents can contact a child psychiatrist whenever they are concerned that their child's difficulties go beyond the normal worries of childhood.

Help may be appropriate, for example, when:

a child experiences prolonged sadness, anxiety, or significant mood swings,

behavioral problems at home or at school,

a child has problems sleeping or eating, or physical problems appear without a clear cause,

learning or adaptation at school is hampered,

a child is facing a challenging life situation, such as parental divorce, bullying, or the loss of a loved one.

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How to book an examination

It is possible to book an examination on the recommendation of a pediatrician, psychologist, school, or other professional. However, parents can also contact a psychiatrist themselves if they are concerned about their child's mental health - a request form is not required.

Course of the initial examination

The first examination, which is called the initial or diagnostic, lasts approximately one hour. During this time, the doctor has the opportunity to get to know the child and parents and hear what is bothering them. The main tool is an interview, so there is no need to worry about any unpleasant examination.

The psychiatrist gradually asks about various areas of the child's life - their development, relationships in the family and among peers, school situation, any illnesses and the nature of the difficulties that led the parents to seek the examination. Parents can share their experiences and bring reports from other experts who have worked with the child.

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The examination takes a slightly different form depending on the child's age:

Children under 6 years of age undergo the examination together with a parent. Young children are often not yet able to express what they are experiencing themselves, which is why the presence of a parent is important and gives the child confidence.

School children and adolescents usually have part of the examination alone. This allows the doctor to talk openly and calmly with the child, while also having the space to talk separately with the parent.

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The entire process is carried out sensitively, taking into account the child's age and needs. However, cooperation with the parents and the entire family is also essential. Parents know their child best, so their perspective is irreplaceable and together we can find ways to help the child as much as possible.

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What to bring with you

It is very useful to bring all available reports about the child:

reports from the pediatrician or other doctors,

psychological examinations, if they have already been carried out,

school evaluation or statements from teachers,

possibly reports from a psychotherapist.

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These documents help the doctor to obtain the most comprehensive picture of the child's situation.

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Examination results and further steps

Finally, the psychiatrist will summarize the examination results and describe the next steps. If necessary, he or she may recommend, for example, a regimen adjustment, regular psychotherapy, the use of medication, further examinations or - in truly exceptional cases - short-term hospitalization.

The recommendation often also includes cooperation with other specialists, such as a psychologist, special education teacher, addiction specialist, educational and psychological counseling center or educational care center.

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What happens next

Depending on the situation, follow-up appointments are arranged to monitor the child's condition, the effectiveness of any treatment, and the treatment plan is adjusted as needed. The goal is always for the parents, child, and professionals to pull together and work together to find ways to relieve the child and help them cope with everyday life.

An examination by a child psychiatrist is therefore primarily about a shared journey – about the professional, parents, and child combining their perspectives and experiences to find the best way to help together.