What is Child Psychiatry?

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry focuses on the emotional, behavioral, and developmental health of children and teenagers. Early intervention is paramount for improving a young person's trajectory and ensuring they reach their full potential. Our services address key developmental challenges, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and common issues like Nocturnal Enuresis (bedwetting). Dr. Behara’s expertise ensures a sensitive, comprehensive, and family-centered approach to pediatric mental health.

Understanding Developmental Challenges

Dr. Sravani Behara performs a meticulous diagnostic evaluation that involves clinical interviews, psychological testing, and collaboration with parents, teachers, and pediatricians. For ADHD, our focus is on managing impulsivity, improving attention, and developing organizational skills. For ASD, we focus on enhancing social communication and managing co-occurring anxiety or challenging behaviors. Even for issues like recurrent bedwetting, a psychiatric assessment can identify underlying stress, anxiety, or attention issues that contribute to the problem.

Common Issues We Address

• Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity (ADHD).

• Difficulties with social communication, interaction, and restricted interests (ASD).

• Recurrent bedwetting past the age of expected control (Enuresis).

• Severe defiance, aggression, or emotional outbursts.

• Academic struggles or difficulties adjusting to school settings.

• Managing anxiety, depression, or mood swings in teenagers.

Collaborative and Integrated Treatment

Treatment is always tailored to the child's developmental stage. It typically involves a combination of parent training, behavioral interventions, school accommodations, and carefully managed pediatric pharmacotherapy (when necessary for conditions like ADHD). Dr. Behara works closely with the entire family, empowering parents with practical tools to support the child’s emotional and behavioral growth.

How to Support a Child/Adolescent with these Conditions

• Prioritize structure and routine: Consistent, predictable routines are essential, especially for ADHD and ASD, to reduce anxiety and aid executive function.

• Use positive reinforcement: Focus on praising the behavior you want to see (e.g., "Great job sitting quietly for five minutes") rather than constantly criticizing mistakes.

• Collaborate with the treatment team: Maintain open communication with the psychiatrist, therapist, and school to ensure everyone is using the same strategies.

• Be patient with skill development: Recognize that emotional and cognitive regulation skills (for ADHD/ASD) take longer to develop; set realistic expectations and celebrate small achievements.