We offer psychiatric assessments for children and young people. Learn more about the process, how to prepare, and what to expect after your child's assessment.
Step by step
Our team will listen to your concerns about your child and help book the most appropriate appointment.
Preparing for your child's assessment
You and your child might find it helpful to write down:
The main difficulties your child is experiencing
When they started and what has changed over time
Any treatment your child has tried before, and what helped or did not help
Any questions you and your child want to ask
Your child's assessment
Psychiatric assessments take up to one hour.
You and your child will meet with a senior specialist clinician who will use structured, evidence based clinical assessment methods, including detailed history taking, symptom review, and a mental state assessment, to understand your child's current mental health and what has led to seeking support.
The specialist clinician will ask about topics that may be relevant to your child's care, such as:
Your child's symptoms and how they affect daily life
Physical health, medication, sleep, and energy
Personal history and current stresses, if you feel comfortable sharing
Relationships, school, and home life, where this helps build a clear picture
You and your child will not be pressured to share details you are not ready to share. If there are areas you or your child would prefer not to discuss, you can say so.