By Dr. Jane Meschan Foy MD FAAP

This all-new point-of-care clinical support chart aids physicians in responding to the mental health needs of their patients encountered in everyday practice. It offers practical guidance on performing brief, evidence-based pediatric interventions that (1) help the child and family in that moment, in the examination room or on the phone, or when a need first surfaces, and (2) improve the child’s functioning and reduce the family’s distress while one is determining whether a full diagnostic assessment and/or the involvement of mental health or developmental specialist(s) will be necessary. TOPICS INCLUDE

Positive results on routine psychosocial tests

Adverse (traumatic) childhood experiences (ACEs)

Universal strategies to reinforce strengths and promote emotional health within families

Pediatric care of children with common mental health symptoms

Anxiety and trauma-related distress

Depressive symptoms

Disruptive behavior and aggression

Psychotropic medications for use in pediatrics

Evidence-based psychosocial therapies for social-emotional concerns in children younger than 5 years of age

Evidence-based mental health interventions for children with somatic symptoms and related disorders