Childhood is a vital phase that shapes the foundation of mental and emotional well-being in adulthood. Children and adolescents are highly susceptible to their surroundings, and any significant psychological or environmental shift during this stage can have lifelong consequences. Early detection and intervention in childhood mental health issues can prevent more severe psychiatric conditions in later years, underscoring the importance of child psychiatry.
Our Approach at Erdem Hospital’s Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department
At Erdem Hospital, our Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department is dedicated to monitoring and guiding the mental development of children and adolescents. Our primary aim is to provide early diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventative strategies to ensure a healthy transition into adulthood.
Services Provided in Child Psychiatry
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Eating Disorders (e.g., restrictive eating, overeating, selective eating)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Developmental Delays
- Tic Disorders
- Academic and Exam-Related Anxiety
- School Phobia and Avoidance
- Childhood Depression and Mood Disorders
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Social Anxiety
- Difficulties in School Adaptation
- Excessive Use of Digital Media and Gaming Addiction
- Toilet Training Issues (e.g., bedwetting, encopresis)
- Speech and Language Disorders (e.g., stuttering, delayed speech)
- Learning Disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia)
- Substance Abuse and Addiction in Adolescents
Treatment Methods Used in Our Clinic
- Individual Psychotherapy
- Family and Parental Counseling
- Psychological and Psychiatric Assessments
- Cognitive and Developmental Evaluations (WISC-4, Denver 2, WISC-R, AGTE, MOXO)
- Play Therapy for younger children
Diagnostic and Psychological Assessments
Personality and Emotional Assessment Tests
- Rorschach Test: A widely recognized psychological tool used to analyze emotions, personality structure, and underlying psychological conflicts in children and adolescents.
Developmental Screening Tests
- AGTE (Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory): Designed for children aged 0-6, this test evaluates motor, cognitive, language, and social skills.
- Denver 2 Developmental Screening Test: Measures age-appropriate skills and identifies potential developmental delays.
Cognitive and Intelligence Tests
- WISC-R (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children – Revised): A validated tool to assess problem-solving skills, memory, attention span, and cognitive function in children aged 6-16.
- WISC-4: An updated version of WISC-R, accommodating modern cognitive development patterns, comprising multiple subtests to measure intellectual and social abilities.
Attention and Impulse Control Tests
- MOXO Test: A computer-based test that measures attention, response speed, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, helping in diagnosing ADHD and related disorders.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments
- ABC and M-CHAT: Standardized screening tools for evaluating communication, behavior, and social interaction in children over four years old, identifying potential signs of autism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Until What Age Does Child Psychiatry Provide Services?
Our Child Psychiatry Department provides care for individuals from infancy to 18 years of age. After this threshold, young adults should seek psychiatric care within adult mental health services.
What Are the Treatment Methods in Child Psychiatry?
The treatment approach varies based on the diagnosis but typically includes psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, parental training, and, when necessary, medication management. Treatment is tailored to the child’s specific needs, ensuring holistic care.
How Is Child Psychiatry Different from Child Psychology and Pedagogy?
Child psychiatry is a medical field specializing in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions, often incorporating medical and pharmacological treatments. In contrast, child psychology focuses on therapy and behavioral support without medication. Pedagogy deals with educational and developmental approaches but does not address clinical psychiatric disorders.
When Should I Take My Child to a Psychiatrist?
If your child exhibits persistent behavioral, emotional, or developmental challenges affecting their daily life, academic performance, or social interactions, consulting a child psychiatrist can provide early intervention and appropriate care.
How Can I Book an Appointment at Erdem Hospital?
To schedule a consultation with our Child Psychiatry Department, call our appointment center at 0850 222 04 94.