Pediatric Psychiatry

The Pediatric Psychiatry Department at Medical Park is dedicated to the early identification, prevention, and treatment of psychological and psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. Early intervention is essential for fostering self-confidence and reducing the risk of long-term mental health conditions. Our department supports young individuals through the critical transition from childhood to adolescence, offering care tailored to each developmental stage. By integrating biological, psychological, and social perspectives, the Pediatric Psychiatry Department provides comprehensive, individualized mental health care for younger populations.

Mental Health in Children and Adolescents

Children and adolescents experience rapidly evolving physical, cognitive, and emotional development. These changes require specialized assessment and treatment approaches that differ from adult psychiatry. Pediatric Psychiatry focuses on each developmental stage, providing individualized care based on a child’s age, family environment, and social context. Psychiatrists in this field work closely with families to ensure interventions are both effective and supportive.

Disorders and Treatments in Pediatric Psychiatry

The 0–18 age range involves significant physiological and personality changes, making early detection and intervention critical. Untreated mental health challenges during these years can have long-term effects. Recognized by the European Union of Medical Specialists, Pediatric Psychiatry addresses a broad spectrum of mental health disorders in children and adolescents.

The department provides comprehensive therapies and interventions, including:

• Individual psychotherapy (psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, relaxation therapy)

• Family therapy

• Medication management

• Psychometric and developmental evaluations

Psychiatrists often collaborate with psychologists to administer age-appropriate diagnostic tests to assess cognitive, emotional, and behavioral development.

Commonly Used Developmental and Psychological Tests

Developmental Tests

• Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory (AGTE): Evaluates milestones in children aged 0–6, including cognitive, motor, social, and self-care skills.

• Denver II Developmental Test: Identifies developmental issues in young children through structured age-appropriate assessments.

• Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test: Measures language and vocabulary in children and adolescents aged 2.5–18.

• Bender-Gestalt Visual-Motor Test: Assesses visual-motor integration in children aged 5.5–11.

• Metropolitan School Readiness Test: Evaluates preschoolers’ motor skills, cognitive development, and emotional maturity.

• Koppitz Human Figure Drawing Test: Assesses emotional development in children aged 4–9.

• Porteus Maze Test: Measures general cognitive abilities in children aged 7.5–14.

Attention Tests

• Moxo d-CPT Attention Performance Test: Detects attention-related difficulties, including ADHD, for children aged seven and older using visual and auditory tasks.

Intelligence Tests

• R.B. Cattell Intelligence Tests (2A and 3A): Measures cognitive abilities in a culturally unbiased manner.

When to Seek Psychiatric Care

Consultation with a child psychiatrist is recommended if a child or adolescent shows:

• Recurrent emotional or behavioral difficulties

• Poor academic performance

• Social withdrawal or isolation

• Persistent sadness or anxiety

• Hyperactivity or impulsivity

Early diagnosis and intervention are critical to prevent long-term complications and support healthy development.

This content was developed with contributions from the Medical Park Editorial Board. It is intended solely for informational purposes and does not contain therapeutic healthcare advice. For accurate diagnosis and treatment, always consult a qualified healthcare provider.