How to Prepare Your Child for a First Psychiatric Visit

What should I tell my child about the visit?

It is often a good idea to talk with your child ahead of time, so the visit does not come as a surprise. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests explaining why you are going, using words your child can understand and keeping it positive. Telling them you care and want to understand how they feel is a good place to begin.

Be honest about what you know, and say so when you do not know something. A first visit is mainly a conversation, so you can describe it as talking and answering questions. If your child is worried about shots or tests, ask us before the visit so that you can answer truthfully.

How do I explain it at different ages?

The wording below is only an example of the kind of thing a parent might say. Change it to sound like you, and match it to your child's development as well as their age. The aim is a short, calm explanation with room for questions.

How can I include my child in getting ready?

Children and teens may be more willing to take part when they feel included in decisions that affect them. Mental Health America suggests asking what they want the provider to know, what they hope will change and what questions they have. Even a younger child can choose a favorite toy to bring.

Try to make clear that the visit is not a punishment. Some children worry that they are in trouble or that something is wrong with them. Let them know that we all struggle sometimes, that help is available, and that you love and support them no matter how they are feeling.

What should I gather before the visit?

You do not need everything on this list. Bring what you have, and tell us what you could not find. Having these in one folder can make the visit easier to follow, particularly if your child is restless and you are trying to do two things at once.

• School reports: report cards, teacher notes, messages from the counselor or nurse and any school plans
• A short note from a teacher or other caregiver about your child's strengths and concerns
• Reports from past evaluations, and a list of therapies or treatments already tried
• A medication list that includes doses, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements
• Physical health conditions, recent illnesses or injuries and family mental health and medical history
• Your notes on what has changed, when it began, how often it happens and what makes it better or worse
• A short video of a behavior you want to discuss, if you have one
• Your child's insurance card and your questions

How do I set up for an office visit?

If you can, choose a time when your child is likely to feel their best, and avoid hours when they are usually tired or hungry. Plan to be on time or a little early so the visit does not start with a rush. Complete the intake forms in the patient portal ahead of time, because they help your provider get to know your child. Our new patients page lists what to bring.

A favorite toy, a snack they like or something else comforting can help a younger child feel settled, especially since a first visit lasts about 60 minutes. During the visit, give your child a chance to answer questions before you step in, if they are able. If there are sensitive details you would rather not share in front of your child, ask us before the visit how to raise them.

How do I set up for a video visit?

A video visit covers much of the same ground, and it needs a little more planning. Remember that your child must be physically in Texas, Idaho, Arizona or Maryland at the time, and a parent or guardian must be present.

• Pick a quiet, private room. If a teen resists telehealth, privacy may be the reason, so a confidential space can help.
• Test the camera, microphone and link in advance, and keep the link written down somewhere you can find it.
• Ask others at home to stop streaming movies and video games during the visit for a stronger connection.
• Put away other screens and distractions, and have a toy or fidget nearby if it helps your child stay settled.
• Keep your folder of school reports and your notes within reach.
• Do not join while driving.

What if my child refuses to go?

It is common for children and teens to feel nervous, embarrassed or unwilling to talk with a mental health professional. They may even deny that there is a problem. Mental Health America advises staying calm and keeping the conversation going rather than forcing the issue.

1. 1Listen firstAsk what is making them hesitant. It may be something you can fix, like worry about being overheard, missing an activity or what will be said about them.
2. 2Acknowledge it and ask them to tryTell them you understand and that you are concerned because you care. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests encouraging them to give it a try, and you can compare it with getting a sore leg checked.
3. 3Offer real choicesLet them help choose the time, video or office, what to bring and what questions to ask. Avoid promises you cannot keep.
4. 4Call us if it is still a problemAsk us what options there are, such as how to begin if your child will not take part at first. Our cancellation policy is on the insurance page, and it is better to call early if the appointment may need to change.
5. 5Get more help if you are worriedIf your child keeps refusing and you are worried about safety or symptoms, talk with their primary care provider or another trusted professional about next steps.

What will the first visit involve at DanShalom Behavioral Clinic?

We see patients ages 5 to 65, and a parent or guardian must be present at appointments for patients under 18. The visit is in person in Sugar Land or by secure video, with Victor Onodjacha, MSN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. You can read more about the psychiatric evaluation itself, or about how a child's evaluation works in more detail. To begin, use the request form or call 346-855-6216.

If your child's symptoms get worse before the visit, do not wait for the appointment to ask for help. We are not an emergency service. If your child talks about suicide or self-harm, or cannot stay safe, call or text 988, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Our crisis resources page lists more places to turn.