Information for Parents and Caregivers

Seeking psychiatric care for a child or adolescent can feel overwhelming. Parents often arrive with questions about what is normal, what is concerning, and how best to support their child. At The Mend, care for children and adolescents is approached thoughtfully, with attention to both the individual child and the family system surrounding them.

Psychiatric care is always developmentally informed. Treatment considers emotional maturity, family dynamics, school environment, and the broader context in which symptoms appear. The goal is not simply symptom reduction, but improved functioning, resilience, and healthy development over time.

The Role of Parents in Care

Parents and caregivers are important partners in the treatment process. Depending on a child’s age and needs, care may involve joint conversations, parent check-ins, and time spent with the child independently. This approach helps support accurate assessment while also allowing space for honest communication.

Parents can expect:

Clear explanations of diagnoses and symptoms
Thoughtful discussion of treatment options
Education about how to support emotional and behavioral regulation at home
Ongoing collaboration as care progresses

Medication for Children and Adolescents

Medication decisions for children and adolescents are made carefully and conservatively. Not every child needs medication, and when medication is recommended, it is done with clear reasoning, education, and close monitoring.

The purpose of medication is not to change a child’s personality or suppress normal emotions. Instead, medication may be used to reduce barriers that interfere with learning, relationships, and daily functioning, allowing a child to engage more fully in growth and development.

Medication decisions are collaborative and revisited regularly as a child matures and circumstances change.

Coordination With Therapists and Schools

When appropriate, care is coordinated with therapists, primary care providers, and other professionals involved in a child’s care. With parental consent, collaboration may also include schools to support consistency across environments.

This coordinated approach helps ensure that treatment aligns with a child’s developmental needs and real-world demands.

What to Expect as a Parent

Parents are encouraged to ask questions and share concerns throughout the treatment process. Care at The Mend is paced, transparent, and focused on building understanding and trust over time.

If you’re considering psychiatric care for your child and would like to learn more about the process, you may find it helpful to review what to expect at the first visit or reach out with questions.