Behavioral Health Visits
Pediatric care providers will provide an important first step for parents who are concerned about their child’s behavior or a specific behavioral issue. According to the Office of Adolescent Health, roughly 15% of children and adolescents today have a mental health disorder or condition, many of which can be treated effectively when diagnosed. Further, undiagnosed mental health concerns in a family can have an affect on young children, long before they exhibit behavior problems.
How does the office assist parents of behavioral health issues?
The practice has access to mental health services which complement the PNPs working with the families. The most successful way to address behavioral concerns is by working together and having open communication about mental health issues. At the practice, mental health services guided by a psychotherapist are available to uncover and clarify mental health needs and have therapeutic encounters with parents and patients in need. Many families, however, feel nervous about disclosing their emotional problems. It is very important to discuss these concerns with the pediatric care provider to ensure that they are diagnosed and treated. The practice offers information about and cares for:
- Autism spectrum diagnosis
- Bullying
- Risky behaviors
- Sibling relationships
- Self-esteem
- Friend relationship
- Toilet training
- Fears
- Dealing with grief
- Bad behaviors
- Safety and health
- Drug and substance abuse
What can I do to encourage good behavior?
Discipline is how parents teach their children to exhibit good behaviors. Good things to work toward can be:
- Praising success and good tries
- Be clear and consistent about rules and expectations
- Listen actively, letting your child finish a story before offering a solution to the problem
- Praising your child for good behavior works most of the time, but you will still need to set limits
- Understand that a time-out is sometimes needed, for either your child or even you
If you want more information about behavioral health, how it’s affecting your child, or even indications to look for in terms of behavioral habits, contact the office. You can schedule an appointment with one of the pediatric nurse practitioners for a consultation.