When to see a child & adolescent psychiatrist

Knowing when to seek specialist help

Expert mental health support for children, teens & families

Growing up is complex, and it isn't always easy to tell when a child needs more than everyday support. A child & adolescent psychiatrist is a medical specialist who can assess, diagnose and treat mental health conditions in young people — including prescribing and reviewing medication when it is appropriate. This page covers the common signs it may be time to seek help and what to expect at a first appointment.

At Blue Fig Clinic this care is provided through our child & adolescent psychiatry service in Sydney CBD, led by Dr Sangeetha Makielan.

A child psychiatrist can help with a wide range of childhood and adolescent mental health conditions, including:

• Anxiety and depression and other mood disorders
• ADHD and behavioural disorders
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Emotional dysregulation
• Trauma and attachment difficulties
• School refusal and adjustment challenges
• Many more

When to See a Child Psychiatrist

It may be time to seek a psychiatric opinion if your child or teen is:

• Struggling to manage emotions, relationships, or daily routines
• Showing changes in mood, behaviour, or academic performance
• Experiencing persistent anxiety, sadness, or anger
• Finding it hard to focus, sit still, or follow instructions
• Facing difficulties at school or with peers
• Not responding to existing supports or therapies

Early intervention can make a significant difference to your child’s long-term well-being and development.

What to Expect at Blue Fig Clinic

Dr Makielan takes a collaborative and trauma-informed approach. She prioritises building trust with young people and their families, creating a safe space for open communication. Comprehensive assessments and tailored treatment plans may include:

• Developmental and psychiatric evaluations
• Medication management (when appropriate)
• Parent and caregiver support
• Review and monitoring for ongoing care

Our goal is to empower families with clarity, confidence, and support at every step.

Next steps

• Our child & adolescent psychiatry service → How we assess and treat children and adolescents at Blue Fig Clinic.
• Meet Dr Sangeetha Makielan → Our child & adolescent psychiatrist's background and approach.
• What a child psychiatrist does → The role, training pathway, and how they differ from other professionals.