Now accepting new patients ages 6 and up starting January 2026
Mon-Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY
CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES (AGES 6+)
Pima Behavioral Health offers psychiatric services that cover all aspects of your child’s mental health, available to kids six years and up through the teenage years. These periods are crucial to the emotional, physical and mental growth of an individual. Early intervention in the treatment of a child’s mental health issues can lead to life changing results when the problem is affecting the child’s functioning in their relationships, at school, or in the home.
Children and adolescents in Tucson have access to long-term care through treatment and evaluation at our psychiatric clinic, which offers developmentally appropriate solutions. We maintain a focus on emotional safety and collaboration.
COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS
The initial steps in the admissions process involve a thorough psychiatric assessment of each child. Our assessments look at the whole child, not just his or her symptoms. Our assessments consider various factors including academic, medical, emotional, family, behavioral and developmental issues that may be contributing to current problems.
A child or adolescent psychiatric evaluation may include:
- Clinical interviews with the child and caregiver(s)
- Review of developmental, academic, and medical history
- Assessment of mood, behavior, attention, anxiety, and trauma symptoms
- Diagnostic clarification when symptoms overlap or are complex
- Discussion of treatment options and recommendations
To offer the appropriate treatment, a diagnosis must be made that considers the child’s age, unique abilities, and needs.
ONGOING MEDICATION MANAGEMENT
While medication is often not required, in certain cases, young people will find that they need to take medication as part of their treatment. Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, well trained in the care of children and adolescents assess the young patient to tailor medication to their needs.
Medication management services include:
- Thoughtful discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives
- Conservative prescribing practices
- Regular checks should be made to determine the efficacy of the treatment and any negative consequences that may arise.
- Adjustments based on growth, development, and symptom changes
- Interaction may be necessary with a child's school, pediatrician, or a specialist such as a child psychologist and/or a psychiatrist as needed.
When medicine is prescribed, it is always a part of a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan that involves, and is approved by, the child’s guardian.
CONDITIONS WE COMMONLY TREAT
Pima Behavioral Health can help with a wide variety of disorders including emotional disorders, psychotic disorders, attention deficit disorders, autism, and eating disorders. We treat:
- Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic)
- Depression and mood disorders
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Trauma- and stress-related disorders
- Behavioral and emotional regulation difficulties
- Adjustment disorders
- Sleep-related psychiatric concerns
- Co-occurring conditions and diagnostic complexity
When it has been decided that a pupil would benefit from specialist care, parents are referred to the appropriate people or agencies.
FAMILY-CENTERED, COLLABORATIVE CARE
Collaboration between professionals when treating children and adolescents who are mentally ill is crucial. We keep parents and carers informed about their child’s condition, the treatment options available, and how the child is progressing.
Our Family-centered approach includes:
- Education and guidance for caregivers
- Support in understanding behavior and emotional needs
- Collaboration with therapists, schools, and other providers
- Respect for family values, preferences, and cultural considerations
- Empowering the family to manage its own affairs is a fundamental and crucial principle to be adopted for the benefit of all.
DEVELOPMENTALLY INFORMED AND TRAUMA-AWARE APPROACH
Children are different from adults, and it is not beneficial to think of them as just smaller adults. Driven by trauma-informed and developmentally based care, our program takes into consideration how different life experiences and the environment have impacted a child’s mental health and development. Our aim is to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment where young people feel heard and valued.
QUALITY PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES FOR THE YOUTH OF TUCSON, ARIZONA AND SURROUNDING AREAS
The Pima Behavioral Health team provides mental health services to families living in Tucson and the surrounding areas. Our clinic provides high-quality, safe, and ethical psychiatric care which helps adolescents and children acquire the skills they need to be emotionally stable, resilient, and confident. Early intervention in any mental health condition can make a significant difference in a child’s life.
SCHEDULE A CHILD OR ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC APPOINTMENT
Services for youngsters and adolescents suffering from mental health issues who are 6 years of age or older are now offered by Pima Behavioral Health. If you would like to find out more about these services, or would like to arrange a psychiatric evaluation for your child, contact Pima Behavioral Health at 520-355-1122. Our caring staff will offer your family a blend of empathy, competence, safety, and evidence-based treatment to achieve the best outcomes possible for your child.
INSURANCES WE ACCEPT
