Why Child Psychiatrists Matter

Understanding the Unique Role of Child Psychiatrists and the Importance of Accessible Care

When it comes to supporting your child or adolescent’s well-being, mental health is just as important as physical health. Perhaps you’ve wondered about the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist, especially if your family is facing challenges. While many children will never need the services of a child psychiatrist, knowing what they do — and where to find expert help — can make all the difference.

The Unique Role of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists

Child and adolescent psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating mental health issues in infants, children, and young people. Their journey begins with medical school, followed by general medical training and at least five years of advanced specialist study focused solely on the mental health of young people. This depth of training ensures they have the expertise to support children with a wide range of conditions—from mild, short-term worries to complex, life-impacting disorders.

Because they’re physicians, they can both provide therapy and prescribe medications when needed. But these professionals don’t just offer medication. They work closely with young people, families, and caregivers, tailoring their approach to suit the individual. Their methods include talking therapies, family work, and, when appropriate, medication. Child psychiatrists understand that every child is unique, and they provide holistic care designed to help young people flourish.

When Should You Consider Seeing a Child Psychiatrist?

Knowing when to seek help can be challenging, but there are certain circumstances when a child and adolescent psychiatrist’s expertise is especially valuable:

·      Severe or complex mental health symptoms: If a young person’s difficulties go beyond what psychology alone can manage.

·      Risk of harm: Children or adolescents who may be at risk of harming themselves or others need specialist intervention.

·      Physical health links: Sometimes emotional or behavioural symptoms are tied to physical health problems.

·      Difficulty engaging: If a child finds it particularly hard to connect with care, a psychiatrist can help break down those barriers.

·      Coordinated care: When multiple services are needed, child psychiatrists can bring everything together for seamless support.

·      Hospital treatment: In some cases, a higher level of care may be required, and psychiatrists can facilitate this process.

Psychiatrists identify such conditions as: ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, depression, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, trauma related disorders and mood disorders. Their expertise is essential in cases such as psychosis, severe depression, self-harm, suicide risk, trauma, and abuse.

Why Choose Lakeside Rooms?

Lakeside Rooms is a multidisciplinary practice of mental health practitioners; home to both psychologists and dedicated child and adolescent psychiatrists who understand the complexities of young minds.

Lakeside Rooms’ psychiatrists offer:

·      Comprehensive assessments to understand your child’s needs.

·      Personalised treatment plans that may include therapy, family work, and medication.

·      Collaboration with families and other services to ensure the best possible outcomes.

At Lakeside Rooms, we believe every child should have access to compassionate, knowledgeable psychiatric care. Child and adolescent psychiatrists make it easier for families in our community to get the support they need, when they need it most. Find out more about the psychiatrists at Lakeside Rooms and their expert, evidence-based care here.