Initial Family Intake
Dr. Contreras meets with parents and child to gather history and concerns.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist in Pembroke Pines
Compassionate Care for Young Patients
Ages Treated:Children through adolescents (and adults)
Providers:Dr. Contreras MD, PMHNPs
Languages:English and Spanish
Family Involvement:Parent/caregiver engagement
The Challenge
When Your Child Needs Specialized Psychiatric Care
Recognizing the Signs
When a child or teen is anxious, withdrawn, defiant, inattentive, or emotionally dysregulated, parents often feel uncertain about where to turn. School calls, pediatrician referrals, and changes in mood or sleep can signal more than a passing phase. Many families try therapy alone for months before realizing their child may need a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Waiting rooms for pediatric psychiatrists can stretch for months, and finding a bilingual provider who understands both the child and the family system adds another layer of difficulty.
A child and adolescent psychiatrist is a medical doctor with specialized training in the developing brain and in pediatric mental health conditions. At R&C Psychiatry, Dr. Contreras completes thorough developmental and diagnostic assessments, coordinates with pediatricians and schools, and makes evidence-based medication recommendations only when clinically indicated. We pair psychiatric care with on-site family and individual therapy so treatment supports the whole child, not just a diagnosis.
What Is Child and Adolescent Psychiatry?
The Science of the Developing Mind
Child and adolescent psychiatry is the medical subspecialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, behavioral, and developmental disorders in patients from early childhood through age 17. Child psychiatrists are physicians who have completed medical school, general psychiatry residency, and a two-year fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry.
How Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Works
Because the brain continues to develop well into the mid-20s, psychiatric conditions in young patients present differently than in adults. A child psychiatrist evaluates not only symptoms but also developmental stage, family dynamics, school functioning, and medical history. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately one in six U.S. children aged 6-17 experiences a mental health disorder each year, and early specialized care significantly improves long-term outcomes.
What Happens During Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Visits
Initial evaluations typically last 60 to 90 minutes and include both caregivers and the child. We gather developmental history, review prior records, and use standardized rating scales. Follow-up sessions focus on medication management, symptom tracking, and coordination with therapists, teachers, and pediatricians.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Results and Duration
Many families see meaningful symptom improvement within 6-12 weeks of beginning treatment. Ongoing follow-up continues for as long as clinically needed, with close monitoring of growth, mood, sleep, and school performance.
Treatment Timeline
First Evaluation
60-90 minute intake with family
First Signs of Improvement
2-6 weeks for most medications
Full Effect
8-12 weeks with ongoing adjustments
Follow-up Cadence
Every 2-4 weeks initially, then monthly
Benefits of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Care That Fits Your Family
- 01
Accurate Diagnosis
Medical evaluation rules out thyroid, sleep, and other medical causes
- 02
Evidence-Based Medication
When needed, prescribed by physicians trained in pediatric dosing
- 03
Family Involvement
Parents and caregivers are partners in every step of treatment
- 04
Bilingual Care
English and Spanish services for our diverse South Florida community
- 05
Integrated Therapy
On-site psychotherapy and case management complement medication
- 06
School Coordination
Support for 504 plans, IEPs, and communication with teachers
Child Psychiatrist vs. Other Providers
Compare Your Options
| Provider Type | Prescribes Meds | Evaluates | Treats | Age Range | Coordinates With | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Psychiatrist (R&C) | Yes | Psychiatric and developmental | Medication + therapy plan | Children and teens (and adults) | Pediatricians, schools, therapists | Complex or moderate-to-severe symptoms |
| Pediatrician | Limited (often starter only) | Medical and developmental | Mild ADHD, basic anxiety | Birth to 18 | Specialists as needed | Initial screening and mild cases |
| Child Psychologist | No | Testing and diagnostic | Therapy and assessments | Children and teens | Psychiatrists, schools | Psychological testing, therapy only |
| Therapist or LCSW | No | Behavioral and emotional | Talk therapy, family therapy | Children, teens, adults | Psychiatrists, schools | Ongoing counseling support |
Who Is a Good Candidate for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry?
Finding the Right Level of Care
Pediatric psychiatric evaluation is appropriate for children and teens whose emotional, behavioral, or attentional symptoms interfere with home life, school, friendships, or physical health. Referrals often come from pediatricians, school counselors, or therapists, and parents can also schedule directly.
Ideal Candidates for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Children and teens with ADHD in children and adolescents who need evaluation or medication management
- Youth with anxiety, depression, or mood symptoms lasting more than a few weeks
- Adolescents with sleep, appetite, or school-refusal issues tied to mental health
- Children with a history of trauma, loss, or major life transitions
- Teens whose current therapy would benefit from a medical/medication consult
- Families seeking coordinated care with pediatricians and schools
Who Should Consider a Different Starting Point
- Children in acute psychiatric crisis or with active suicidal intent (call 988 or go to the nearest ER)
- Cases where autism evaluation for ABA therapy is the primary need, which we also offer
- Families wanting therapy-only care without medical evaluation
- Patients needing inpatient hospitalization or partial hospitalization programs
When in doubt, a consultation helps determine the right level of care. Guidelines from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry inform all of our assessments.
What Happens During Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Treatment
Developmental Assessment
Standardized rating scales and developmental screening tools identify patterns and strengths.
Diagnosis and Plan
We review findings with the family and recommend therapy, medication, or combined care.
Family Follow-ups
Scheduled visits every 2-4 weeks initially to monitor response, side effects, and progress.
School and Pediatrician Coordination
Junior Peralta Pena, PMHNP-BC coordinates with teachers, counselors, and primary care.
Risks and Side Effects
What to Know
Common Side Effects of Pediatric Psychiatric Medication
The most common side effects depend on the medication class. Stimulants used for ADHD may cause reduced appetite, trouble falling asleep, or mild headache, typically improving within the first 1-2 weeks. SSRIs used for anxiety and depression may cause short-term nausea or restlessness that resolves in 2-4 weeks. Not every child needs medication, and not every medication is the right fit.
Rare Complications
Serious reactions are uncommon but possible. FDA-labeled warnings for antidepressants in youth include a small increased risk of suicidal thoughts, which is why close follow-up in the first weeks is essential. All stimulants require baseline and periodic vital-sign and growth monitoring.
Safety and FDA Status
All medications prescribed at R&C Psychiatry are FDA-approved for pediatric use or used in evidence-based, guideline-supported off-label protocols consistent with American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry practice parameters. Dr. Contreras reviews every prescription individually with families. For additional safety information on specific medications, consult the NIMH child and adolescent mental health resources.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Cost in Pembroke Pines
Pricing and Payment Options
Pediatric psychiatric care in Pembroke Pines, FL typically includes an initial evaluation (60-90 minutes) and follow-up visits (20-30 minutes) for medication management. Exact pricing will be discussed during your consultation based on insurance, visit type, and individualized treatment plan. Costs vary by insurance plan, visit length, and whether therapy, psychological testing, or school coordination are included.
Insurance and Coverage
R&C Psychiatry accepts many major commercial insurance plans. Our administrative team will verify benefits before your first visit and explain any copay or deductible responsibilities in writing.
Flexible Payment Options
We work with families to make specialized pediatric psychiatric care accessible:
- Major insurance plans - In-network benefits when available
- Self-pay rates - Transparent flat rates for intake and follow-up visits
- Coordinated billing - Combined service bundles when adding on-site therapy
Why Choose R&C Psychiatry for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in Pembroke Pines, FL
Pembroke Pines' Trusted Pediatric Team
MD Child Psychiatry Expertise
Dr. Contreras specializes in youth and adult care
Bilingual English and Spanish
Spanish-speaking care for South Florida's Hispanic families
Integrated On-Site Therapy
Medication and psychotherapy coordinated under one roof
Family-Centered Approach
Parents and caregivers engaged at every stage of treatment
Explore More
Related Services
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Psychiatric Care
Frequently Asked Questions About Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Your Questions Answered
01 What age range do you treat?
Dr. Contreras and Junior Peralta Pena, PMHNP-BC treat children, adolescents, and adults. There is no strict lower age cutoff; we assess each child individually during the intake call to confirm fit.
02 What conditions do you treat in children?
We evaluate and treat ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, mood dysregulation, OCD, tics, early bipolar-spectrum concerns, PTSD, trauma, sleep-related psychiatric issues, and school-refusal problems in children and teens.
03 Do you prescribe medication to children?
Yes, when clinically indicated. We follow AACAP practice parameters and always pair medication with therapy, parent coaching, and school coordination. Not every child needs medication, and we never prescribe without a thorough evaluation first.
04 Do you do ADHD evaluations?
Yes. Our ADHD evaluations combine parent and teacher rating scales, developmental history, and a clinical interview with the child. We rule out look-alike causes such as sleep problems, anxiety, learning differences, and thyroid issues before diagnosis.
05 How is a child psychiatrist different from a child psychologist?
A child psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication and order labs. A child psychologist holds a doctorate in psychology and focuses on testing and therapy. Many children benefit from both working together, which is why we offer on-site psychotherapy at R&C Psychiatry.
06 Do you involve parents in treatment?
Always. Parents and caregivers attend intake sessions and most follow-up visits, especially for younger children. We coach parents on behavior strategies, sleep routines, and school advocacy alongside any medication plan.
07 Do you offer care in Spanish?
Yes. Dr. Contreras and several team members provide care fully in Spanish as well as English, which is essential for our South Florida families.
08 Can my child continue therapy elsewhere while seeing you?
Absolutely. With your permission, we coordinate directly with outside therapists, schools, and pediatricians to keep everyone aligned on your child's progress and care plan.
Location9050 Pines Blvd, Suite 150
Pembroke Pines, FL, 33024
Pembroke Pines, FL, 33024
Phone(954) 872-0555
Schedule Your Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Consultation
References
- PubMed (PMID: 25130056) - Goldstein and Goldstein (2014) review of evidence-based assessment and treatment for pediatric ADHD.
- PubMed (PMID: 18971491) - Walkup et al. (2008) CAMS trial showing combined CBT and sertraline superior to either alone for pediatric anxiety disorders.
- PubMed (PMID: 18356768) - March et al. TADS study on treatment of adolescent depression with fluoxetine and cognitive behavioral therapy.
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry - Family resources and practice parameters for pediatric psychiatric assessment and treatment.
- National Institute of Mental Health - Statistics and guidance on child and adolescent mental health conditions and evidence-based treatment.