The child psychiatrist is one of the specialist doctors for ADHD in children and adolescents. They can make the diagnosis, suggest support and prescribe treatment if needed. Here is what you need to know about their role. Understanding their role helps you prepare better for the consultation.
A child psychiatrist is a medical psychiatrist who specialises in children and adolescents. They focus on development, emotions and behaviour. They take the child into account as a whole.
You will find more details in the article Who to consult for ADHD.
They assess the symptoms, make the diagnosis, look for associated conditions such as anxiety or depression, and propose a support plan. These associated conditions are common.
Our article Who makes the ADHD diagnosis complements this advice.
The first consultation often lasts a long time. The child psychiatrist talks with the parents and the child, takes the child’s history and analyses the questionnaires. Bring any useful documents.
Several appointments may be necessary.
To find out more, see The ADHD assessment: how it works.
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The child psychiatrist can prescribe medication if the recommendations justify it. They also provide follow-up. Treatment is subject to regular monitoring.
The article ADHD medication: parents’ questions covers this question in detail.
Child psychiatrists work in hospitals, in centres médico-psychologiques, in centres médico-psycho-pédagogiques or in private practice. Waiting times are often long. Sign up early on waiting lists.
This point is explained step by step in Waiting times for an ADHD assessment.
In the public sector, consultations are covered. In private practice, fees vary, and some practitioners charge extra fees (dépassements d’honoraires). Find out before the first appointment.
To go further, read our article Cost of an ADHD assessment.
The child psychiatrist often works with other professionals: psychologist, neuropsychologist, speech and language therapist, psychomotor therapist, GP. This coordination improves support.
We detail this point in After the ADHD diagnosis: the steps.
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Yes, they are one of the specialist doctors for ADHD. They make the diagnosis.
In hospitals, in CMPs, in CMPPs or in private practice. They look for associated conditions.
Yes, if the recommendations justify it. Waiting times are often long.
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