Child & Adolescent Services
Individual, Family, and Group Psychotherapy
Children and adolescents served by the Robert Young Center Outpatient Department are generally involved in either child-based or family-based therapy with one of the center's licensed clinical social workers. Specialized psychotherapy groups and clinical programs are recommended when appropriate.
A child's first appointment is scheduled to determine the child's needs and most appropriate mode of therapy. A parent or legal guardian needs to accompany the child. Day and evening intake appointments are available to accommodate our clients.
Psychological Testing
The psychologist assesses a child's cognitive ability, personality, and neuro-psychological skills. Testing yields an assessment of skills, strengths, and weaknesses for the therapist, families, and referral sources. This information will help in treatment planning, enhancement of educational programming, and increased awareness for the child and family.
Psychologists at the Robert Young Center utilize a computerized program to evaluate attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder or attention deficit undifferentiated.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Clinic
This specialized program to diagnose and treat attention deficit disorders involves a team of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers to provide the following services:
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Medication and behavior management
- Parent education about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Social skills training
This process begins with a comprehensive evaluation. After diagnosis, the child receives social skills training for one hour per month in a group setting with children near their age level. Parents receive education, coping techniques, and behavior management strategies for attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. Medication management, including proper medication, dosages and side effects are discussed monthly between the doctor and the family. Height and weight are also checked monthly to monitor possible medication side effects.
Children ages 5-13 are eligible for this service. Preschoolers may be eligible for some evaluation and treatment components.
Referring agencies and schools are notified about the child's involvement in the clinic and medication information. Schools and agencies involved in monitoring the child's behavior are also given additional information. Clients also may be referred for family therapy. The parent is actively engaged in the evaluation and treatment process.