Understanding Specialist Mental Health Support for Children and Adolescents

 

What is a Child Psychiatrist?

 

A child psychiatrist, also known as a child and adolescent psychiatrist, is a medically trained doctor who specialises in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions in children and young people—from infancy through to late adolescence. Unlike psychologists or counsellors, child psychiatrists are medical specialists who can prescribe medication and provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments and treatment plans.

 

These specialists work with children experiencing a wide range of emotional, behavioural, developmental, and psychological issues, including:

 

• Anxiety disorders

• Depression and mood disorders

• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

• Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Trauma-related conditions

• Eating disorders

• Psychosis and early-onset schizophrenia

• Learning and intellectual difficulties with psychiatric comorbidities

 

Child psychiatrists often work in multidisciplinary teams alongside psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, paediatricians, and educators to provide holistic care.

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What Training Do Child Psychiatrists Have?

 

In Australia, child and adolescent psychiatrists complete rigorous training through the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP). Their pathway includes:

 

1. Medical Degree – Completion of a medical degree (MBBS or equivalent), typically taking 5–6 years.

2. Internship and Medical Registration – A one-year internship followed by full registration with the Medical Board of Australia.

3. General Psychiatry Training – Entry into the RANZCP psychiatry training program, which includes at least 5 years of structured clinical training and assessments.

4. Advanced Training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry – After completing general psychiatry training, a further 2 years of advanced training is undertaken in accredited child and adolescent psychiatry settings.

5. Fellowship of RANZCP – Upon successful completion, the psychiatrist is awarded Fellowship (FRANZCP), with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

 

This extensive training ensures child psychiatrists are equipped to understand the complex interplay of biological, psychological, developmental, and social factors affecting young people’s mental health.

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When Should You See a Child Psychiatrist?

 

You might consider seeing a child psychiatrist if your child:

 

• Struggles with persistent emotional or behavioural issues

• Shows signs of developmental delays or social difficulties

• Is not responding to support from school or allied health professionals

• Has experienced trauma or major life changes

• Needs a diagnosis and treatment plan for a psychiatric condition

• Requires medication review or prescription for mental health concerns

 

Referrals can be made by a general practitioner (GP), and Medicare rebates are available for eligible services.

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Child Psychiatrists vs Other Mental Health Professionals

 

While psychologists provide therapy and behavioural interventions, child psychiatrists can offer diagnosis, medical investigations, and medication management when needed. They are especially important in complex or severe presentations and when there may be a combination of developmental, psychiatric, and family factors involved.

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Find a Qualified Child Psychiatrist in Australia

 

Choosing a specialist with recognised qualifications and a compassionate, family-centred approach is vital. Look for psychiatrists with FRANZCP and specific training in child and adolescent psychiatry. Many work in private practice, public hospitals, or community child and youth mental health services.

 

For further information or to book a consultation, contact your GP or a specialist clinic near you.