Thoughtful, Supportive Mental Health Care for the Next Generation.
When your child or teenager is struggling, it affects the entire family. Whether it’s a sudden shift in mood, a decline in school performance, or a long-standing challenge with focus and social connection, knowing where to turn is the first step toward relief. At Smile Psychiatry, we provide specialized psychiatric care for children and adolescents starting at age 4.
We offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach throughout Utah, helping families move past the “behavioral labels” to understand the biological and emotional roots of their child’s struggle.
When to Consider a Psychiatric Evaluation for Your Child
Children and teenagers rarely have the vocabulary to say, “I am feeling depressed” or “My executive dysfunction is making school impossible.” Instead, their internal struggle often manifests as external “behaviors.”
It may be time to seek a professional evaluation if you notice:
- The “Meltdown” Cycle: Frequent emotional outbursts or irritability that seem disproportionate to the situation.
- School Avoidance: Intense anxiety about attending school or a sudden drop in grades despite their ability.
- Social Withdrawal: A child who was once social becoming isolated or struggling to maintain peer relationships.
- Regression: A return to younger behaviors, such as bedwetting or intense separation anxiety.
- Inattention & Impulsivity: Difficulty following multi-step directions or staying seated, often noted by teachers or coaches.
Conditions We Specialize In for Youth
We don’t just treat “symptoms”; we treat the whole child. Our pediatric specialists are experienced in:
- ADHD (Pediatric & Adolescent): Comprehensive testing and medication management that considers growth and development.
- Anxiety & School Phobia: Helping children navigate the “What-if” thoughts that keep them from participating in life.
- Depression & Mood Disorders: Supporting teens through the complexities of modern social pressure and biological shifts.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Utilizing the ADOS-2 gold-standard testing to provide early clarity.
- OCD & Tics: Managing intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors with a gentle, age-appropriate approach.
The “Smile” Approach: Collaborative & Gentle
We know that parents are the experts on their own children. Our process is designed to be a partnership between the provider, the child, and the caregivers.
1. The Pediatric Evaluation
A child’s first visit is unhurried and supportive. We take the time to build rapport with your child so they feel safe and heard. We discuss:
Developmental and medical history.
Social and family dynamics.
Input from teachers or school counselors (with your permission).
2. Data-Driven Diagnostics
If we suspect ADHD or Autism, we don’t rely on guesswork. We utilize objective tools like Creyos cognitive testing or the ADOS-2 to provide a clear, clinical picture of your child’s unique brain.
3. Conservative Medication Management
Deciding to start a child on medication is a significant decision. We take an incredibly thoughtful, “Safety-First” approach:
- Education First: We explain the benefits and potential side effects in plain language.
- Collaborative Choice: We work with you to find the lowest effective dose, monitoring your child’s growth, sleep, and appetite closely.
- Holistic Integration: We often coordinate with your child’s therapist or pediatrician to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Supporting Parents, Too
Parenting a child with mental health challenges can be isolating and exhausting. At Smile Psychiatry, we are here to support you just as much as your child. We provide:
- Clear Guidance: No more “medical jargon.” We explain what is happening in your child’s brain and why.
- Actionable Strategies: Practical tools for home and school to help your child thrive.
- Fast Access: Don’t wait 6 months for a specialist. We strive to get children and teens seen within 1 to 2 business days.
Why Choose Smile Psychiatry?
We know how hard it is to finally ask for help. We strive to get you seen within 1 to 2 business days.
- Flexible Access: Visit our offices in Lehi and Draper or connect with us via Telehealth from anywhere in Utah.
- All Ages Welcome: Specialized evaluations for children (4+), students, and professionals.
Early Support Changes Everything.
The earlier a child understands their brain and receives the right support, the more confident they become in their own potential. Let’s work together to bring the smile back to your child’s face.