Expert Medication Management for Young People

Medication can be an important part of a child’s mental health treatment when clinically appropriate. Our child and adolescent psychiatrists carefully evaluate each young patient and work closely with families to make informed decisions about medication, always prioritizing safety, transparency, and the best possible outcomes.

Therapist meeting with a parent and child during a family counseling session

Medication evaluation and management at our Children’s Hospital is overseen by experienced child and adolescent psychiatrists who specialize in treating young people. We take a thoughtful, conservative approach. Medication is recommended only when a thorough evaluation indicates it will meaningfully benefit the child’s treatment.

We take time to explain, to you and to your child, how each medication works, what benefits to expect, possible side effects, and how long results may take. Families make better decisions when nothing is a mystery.

Our child and adolescent psychiatrists treat depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and other conditions using prescribing practices grounded in pediatric evidence.

Kids change fast, so monitoring matters even more. Providers watch your child’s response closely, track side effects, and adjust as needed.

Medication rarely works alone. It’s paired with therapy and the hospital’s other services, and your child’s prescriber coordinates with the whole treatment team.

Doctor talking with parent and child during pediatric appointment

What to Expect

The first medication evaluation happens as part of your child’s admission assessment. Bring a list of any current medications, including over-the-counter supplements, plus previous psychiatric records if you have them.

Your child’s provider will go over their recommendation with you and answer questions before any decision is made. During the stay, medications are monitored daily, and the discharge plan includes clear instructions and follow-up appointments.

Other Children’s Hospital Services

Inpatient Services

Intensive, round-the-clock psychiatric care for children and teens ages 4-17. Individualized treatment plans, on-site school, and family involvement throughout the healing process.

Acute Psychiatric Inpatient

Immediate safety and stabilization for children and teens in psychiatric crisis. Short-term inpatient care with rapid assessment, 24/7 monitoring, and comprehensive aftercare planning.

Individual Group Family Therapy

Individual therapy, group experiences, and family sessions tailored to each child’s needs. Licensed clinicians specializing in youth care help children and teens build coping skills and resilience.

Specialized Therapeutic Activities

Art, music, movement, and recreation designed to promote healing and self-expression. Our specialized activities help children build confidence, develop coping skills, and discover new strengths.

Nursing Care Crisis Support

Registered nurses and behavioral health associates providing continuous, compassionate care and crisis support around the clock. Trained in pediatric psychiatric care and therapeutic intervention techniques.

Behavioral Intervention Services

Evidence-based behavioral intervention focused on understanding root causes and building healthier skills. Individualized behavioral plans, consistent reinforcement, and family education for lasting positive change.

Specialized Therapies

Targeted programs including the STATE Program for autism spectrum disorder, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based clinical approaches tailored to each child’s unique needs and diagnosis.