Toddler Psychiatrists in Maplewood, NJ

Photo of Callister Ibe - Future Hope Mental Care of NJ, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Future Hope Mental Care of NJ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I want clients to be able to have an open non-judgmental area to tackle their emotions, gain insights, and develop an understanding that creates changes.
I want clients to be able to have an open non-judgmental area to tackle their emotions, gain insights, and develop an understanding that creates changes.
(609) 566-8884 View (609) 566-8884
Photo of Akinlabi Sanusi, MD, Psychiatrist
Akinlabi Sanusi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best. I believe in the combination of medication management and psychotherapy for a quick return to functioning.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best. I believe in the combination of medication management and psychotherapy for a quick return to functioning.
(732) 627-2660 View (732) 627-2660
Photo of Oluchi Chilaka - Luchiee Psychiatric Services, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luchiee Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
(973) 221-8559 View (973) 221-8559
Photo of Dr. Fehintola Ogunsakin - PMC Psychiatric Mental Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
PMC Psychiatric Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
(908) 840-8719 View (908) 840-8719

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Marc Cantillon, MD, FAPA, FANA, Psychiatrist
Marc Cantillon
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FANA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
Sadness, ADD, addiction, relationships, other anguish? No matter what pain you bear, there is hope, with care, scientific evidence, and if needed legal help. For every problem, there are solutions: I have witnessed personal change, growth at any age. For children: identity and learning; for adults work/other responsibilities, or staying active and fully enjoying the wisdom of a mature life. Together we identify the issue(s), talking support CBT therapy and/or medication including natural complementary, exercises, work coaching. For fees, I work flexibly with those patients who have out of network coverage so they are reimbursed.
Sadness, ADD, addiction, relationships, other anguish? No matter what pain you bear, there is hope, with care, scientific evidence, and if needed legal help. For every problem, there are solutions: I have witnessed personal change, growth at any age. For children: identity and learning; for adults work/other responsibilities, or staying active and fully enjoying the wisdom of a mature life. Together we identify the issue(s), talking support CBT therapy and/or medication including natural complementary, exercises, work coaching. For fees, I work flexibly with those patients who have out of network coverage so they are reimbursed.
(973) 870-0599 View (973) 870-0599
Photo of Dr. Henrietta Okpala, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Henrietta Okpala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07104  (Online Only)
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
(347) 427-5120 View (347) 427-5120
Photo of Seth Michael Dorsky, MD, Psychiatrist
Seth Michael Dorsky
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chatham, NJ 07928
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
(973) 707-3696 View (973) 707-3696
Photo of Dr. Denise Chase, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Denise Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07105  (Online Only)
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
(609) 507-0364 View (609) 507-0364
Photo of david O. Alabi - Eagle Health Services LLC, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eagle Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07105
Eagle Health Services provide a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. Dr. Alabi offers assessment, therapy and medication management. I endeavor to provide the best quality of care the industry could afford and take to heart my patients individualized needs. I work with the people in my care to help them understand, learn from, and manage their difficult feelings. I specialize in treating patients with varying mental health disorders including but not limited to ADHD, depression, sleep disturbance, bipolar and anxiety disorders with those struggling with substance abuse.
Eagle Health Services provide a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. Dr. Alabi offers assessment, therapy and medication management. I endeavor to provide the best quality of care the industry could afford and take to heart my patients individualized needs. I work with the people in my care to help them understand, learn from, and manage their difficult feelings. I specialize in treating patients with varying mental health disorders including but not limited to ADHD, depression, sleep disturbance, bipolar and anxiety disorders with those struggling with substance abuse.
(973) 755-7783 View (973) 755-7783
Photo of David A. Mitnick, MD, Psychiatrist
David A. Mitnick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
(201) 877-5505 View (201) 877-5505
Photo of Dr. Adebola Sherifat Ajanaku - L&A Absolute Care, LLC., DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
L&A Absolute Care, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irvington, NJ 07111
You must be frustrated? Maybe even tired? But most importantly, you're just looking for the right one- the psychiatrist who finally gets it right. If this is so, I wholeheartedly believe that you should stop by. I have dedicated over 18 years of my life as a psychiatric nurse (since 2003) to improve the quality of life for all my clients through holistic psychiatric care. I have my Doctorates and am board certified in family psychiatry with experience in all ages, especially children. I always try to build a sound relationship with each and every one of my clients in order to make the treatment process a very comforting journey.
You must be frustrated? Maybe even tired? But most importantly, you're just looking for the right one- the psychiatrist who finally gets it right. If this is so, I wholeheartedly believe that you should stop by. I have dedicated over 18 years of my life as a psychiatric nurse (since 2003) to improve the quality of life for all my clients through holistic psychiatric care. I have my Doctorates and am board certified in family psychiatry with experience in all ages, especially children. I always try to build a sound relationship with each and every one of my clients in order to make the treatment process a very comforting journey.
(973) 849-6030 View (973) 849-6030
Photo of Christopher Tikum, DNP, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Tikum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Dr. Tikum’s ideal client are those open to self-exploration and growth. He likes providing care for clients with Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Trauma, etc. and desire to understand their patterns and behaviors. Dr. Tikum provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to express their thoughts and feelings, as well as guidance in developing coping strategies and tools for emotional regulation. My goals are to educate clients and family on their health conditions and medications management to help them achieve a better understanding of themselves, improving their relationships, and enhancing their wellbeing and longevity.
Dr. Tikum’s ideal client are those open to self-exploration and growth. He likes providing care for clients with Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Trauma, etc. and desire to understand their patterns and behaviors. Dr. Tikum provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to express their thoughts and feelings, as well as guidance in developing coping strategies and tools for emotional regulation. My goals are to educate clients and family on their health conditions and medications management to help them achieve a better understanding of themselves, improving their relationships, and enhancing their wellbeing and longevity.
(973) 520-5939 View (973) 520-5939
Photo of Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shavar Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Dr. Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I founded my practice to specialize in treating the family including children, adolescents, adults and older adults with or who believe they may have difficulty with Psychiatric and Mental Health challenges. I have practiced as a Registered Nurse in an array of specialties for over 34 years. I also have specialized in Psychiatric, Mental Health and Addictions treatment for the past 18 years. As a solution focused Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner, it's my goal to assist you in reducing symptoms that impact your ability to function at home, at work, at school or at play.
Dr. Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I founded my practice to specialize in treating the family including children, adolescents, adults and older adults with or who believe they may have difficulty with Psychiatric and Mental Health challenges. I have practiced as a Registered Nurse in an array of specialties for over 34 years. I also have specialized in Psychiatric, Mental Health and Addictions treatment for the past 18 years. As a solution focused Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner, it's my goal to assist you in reducing symptoms that impact your ability to function at home, at work, at school or at play.
(908) 224-3649 View (908) 224-3649
Photo of Ramandeep Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist
Ramandeep Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Linden, NJ 07036
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
(732) 334-3281 View (732) 334-3281
Photo of Dr. Fehintola Ogunsakin - PMC- Mental Health Clinic, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
PMC- Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
(908) 840-8295 View (908) 840-8295
Photo of Dr. Olubunmi Adetule - Pro Peace NP in Psychiatry PLLC, DNP, PMHNP, APN-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pro Peace NP in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, has a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults) to clients with diverse mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD treatment and management, to improve their overall conditions.
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, has a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults) to clients with diverse mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD treatment and management, to improve their overall conditions.
(347) 846-2316 View (347) 846-2316
Photo of Ngozi Beatrice Amadiegwu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ngozi Beatrice Amadiegwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions. I have over 23 years of Psychiatric experience in my career, and I have earned the ability to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental and psychological issues in all life span.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions. I have over 23 years of Psychiatric experience in my career, and I have earned the ability to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental and psychological issues in all life span.
(908) 866-5178 View (908) 866-5178
Photo of Neha Gupta, MD, Psychiatrist
Neha Gupta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I'm a Triple Board Certified Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist. I grew up in Westfield, NJ and am well connected to the area. I've completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I went on to do a 2nd fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
I'm a Triple Board Certified Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist. I grew up in Westfield, NJ and am well connected to the area. I've completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I went on to do a 2nd fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(848) 244-8678 View (848) 244-8678
Photo of Jessica Halpern, MD, Psychiatrist
Jessica Halpern
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountainside, NJ 07092  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
*PLEASE NOTE: I am only conducting sessions virtually.** It is my duty and pleasure to ensure that everyone who enters my office feels welcomed, listened to, and validated in their feelings. While working with you, I will assess whether or not medication is necessary to aid in your progress and if it is, I will work with you to find the one right for you and your symptoms. My goal is to become an ally for each of my clients by taking an empathic approach to gain a deeper understanding of their current struggles. You will find me to be interactive and engaged in every session.
*PLEASE NOTE: I am only conducting sessions virtually.** It is my duty and pleasure to ensure that everyone who enters my office feels welcomed, listened to, and validated in their feelings. While working with you, I will assess whether or not medication is necessary to aid in your progress and if it is, I will work with you to find the one right for you and your symptoms. My goal is to become an ally for each of my clients by taking an empathic approach to gain a deeper understanding of their current struggles. You will find me to be interactive and engaged in every session.
(908) 258-6534 View (908) 258-6534
Photo of Tolga Taneli, MD, Psychiatrist
Tolga Taneli
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Madison, NJ 07940
Not accepting new clients
I'm a child & adolescent psychiatrist who trained physicians and medical students, as the Division Director for Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School for 13 years. I worked a busy emergency room and sub-specialty clinics. I specialize in medicine treatments for Tourette Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, learning disorders, and anxiety disorders. I am honored to have been recognized by the readers of NJ Family Magazine as one of "New Jersey's Favorite Kids' Docs" in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (2016 & 2022).
I'm a child & adolescent psychiatrist who trained physicians and medical students, as the Division Director for Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School for 13 years. I worked a busy emergency room and sub-specialty clinics. I specialize in medicine treatments for Tourette Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, learning disorders, and anxiety disorders. I am honored to have been recognized by the readers of NJ Family Magazine as one of "New Jersey's Favorite Kids' Docs" in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (2016 & 2022).
(973) 671-1259 View (973) 671-1259

See more therapy options for Maplewood

Toddler Psychiatrists

What are the behavioral signs indicating a toddler might need counseling?

Common behavioral signs that a child may need counseling include high levels of emotional distress or anxiety, learning challenges, interpersonal conflict, anger, or social withdrawal. Any drastic changes in toddler behavior or self-esteem can be indicative that a child may benefit from therapy. Seeing a therapist at the early stages of any behavioral changes can be most impactful on behavior, as well as helpful to caregivers who may receive guidance on what symptoms to look for in their child in the future, even if therapy is not warranted at that time.

Can a two-year-old see a psychologist?

Children and adults of all ages can see psychologists and other forms of mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychiatrists, and social workers. Families seeking therapy for their toddler should just be aware that any guidance they seek should come from a professional who has specific experience working with young children, as well as the specific modalities that are appropriate for young children, such as play therapy.

What is the most effective type of therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?

In general, play therapy is the most effective and common form of therapy for young children. Play therapy helps facilitate behavior change by offering an age-appropriate way for children to express their emotions and develop more effective coping strategies. Toddlers with specific concerns may benefit from more specialized forms of therapy, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for toddlers in families in which there is significant parent-child relational conflict.

What happens during therapy sessions for toddlers?

What occurs in therapy sessions for toddlers depends on the therapeutic approach being used by the therapist. Most toddler therapists will use some form of play therapy in sessions to encourage toddler engagement. In play therapy sessions, children are encouraged to use toys within the therapy setting to express their emotions; subsequent responses by the therapist and/or family members can help guide toddler behavior and behavior change. Toddler therapy sessions can also involve family therapy or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which can help improve parenting behaviors and reduce strain on families.