Behavioral health care

Services

Behavioral health care

Because mental wellness matters

Call 888-776-5252 to book an appointment

Whole-child health includes mental health

More children and teens are facing mental health challenges than ever before, including depression, anxiety, attention difficulties, and stress. MD Kids Pediatrics is committed to supporting your child’s overall wellness, not just their physical health — and today, mental health is a big part of that. Our dedicated behavioral health consultants provide compassionate, evidence-based care in the place that already knows and understands your child.

Ways we support your child’s mental wellness

Routine screenings

Your pediatrician screens for anxiety, depression, substance use, and more — especially during the adolescent years.

Conversation and guidance

We create a safe space to talk about what your child is feeling and how to support them at home and in school.

Referrals to specialists

When additional support is needed, we connect families to trusted mental health providers in the community.

On-site support

Visit dedicated behavioral health consultants at select locations for same-day consultation and follow-up care.

What is behavioral health?

Is behavioral health the same as mental health? Not exactly — but they are very closely intertwined. Behavioral health refers to the care of a person’s mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being. Mental health issues are a big part of the overall picture, but not the only part.

Behavioral health also encompasses lifestyle factors (such as diet, exercise, and sleep), substance use disorders (including drugs and alcohol), and social functioning (from relationships to communicating with others). These all contribute to a person’s overall wellness — and they can all be improved with timely intervention and treatment.

Our pediatricians are trained to screen for behavioral concerns

Behavioral health screenings are an important part of every well visit, even before the first signs of puberty begin. These screenings are integrated into routine check-ups at an early age to identify potential issues like depression, anxiety, and substance use as soon as possible, from preadolescence through the preteen and teen years.

During the visit, your pediatrician will observe your child’s behavior and interactions with others, including body language and eye contact. You or your child may complete a mental health questionnaire. Your pediatrician will also ask carefully crafted open-ended questions that help us assess your child’s well-being. We’re here to listen to any concerns you have.

Coordinated access to specialist care

Behavioral health support is available to all MD Kids Pediatrics patients, whether your child needs an in-person appointment, a specialist referral, or a connection to longer-term support. We offer on-site support at select locations, with behavioral health consultants available for same-day consultation and follow-up care. Ask your pediatrician for more information about the resources available in your community.

Worried about your child's mental wellness?

Whether it’s stress, sadness, or something more, we are here to listen and help.

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