Letdah.fr a media powered by

the no.1 media on Dys disorders

Child psychiatrist and ADHD

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.

Who is the child psychiatrist

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.

Their role in 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 consultation

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.

The only online directory dedicated to professionals working with Dys disorders

Treatment

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.

Where to find one

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.

Cost

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.

Working as a team

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.

Chat with parents of children with dys disorders

A space for exchange, listening and support dedicated to parents of children with DYS disorders

Frequently asked questions

Can a child psychiatrist diagnose ADHD ?

Yes, they are one of the specialist doctors for ADHD. They make the diagnosis.

Where to find a child psychiatrist ?

In hospitals, in CMPs, in CMPPs or in private practice. They look for associated conditions.

Can they prescribe treatment ?

Yes, if the recommendations justify it. Waiting times are often long.

Discover the articles published recently

Advice, favourites and DYS news every week.

Subscribe here.

Dysorthographie.fr

A media from the LesDys.fr group

The number one media on Dys disorders