Childhood Behavioral & Mental Health
Many symptoms of mental health issues can also just be a normal part of a child’s development. Yet it's also important to recognize and treat mental illnesses in children early on. Our professionals and counselors have the expertise to evaluate and treat a full range of mental health and behavioral problems in children and adolescents.
Services are offered through Maine Behavioral Healthcare, a full-service provider for both children and adults. Community care extends from Springvale to Norway to Belfast, with inpatient care at Spring Harbor Hospital in greater Portland. Children and families get the comprehensive care they need. Talk to your primary care provider if you are seeking care for your child or adolescent.
What is childhood mental health care?
Mental health is a key part of a child’s overall health. A child’s mental health will affect how he or she grows, learns and develops. At MaineHealth, our counselors and clinicians see children with emotional and/or behavioral problems and their families.
Evaluation, diagnosis and treatment
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Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD)
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Depression
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Anxiety disorders including post-traumatic stress disorder
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Disruptive behavior disorders
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Oppositional/defiant disorder
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Pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) including autism
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Co-occurring substance abuse and mental illness
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Psychological complications from chronic or serious illness
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Eating disorders
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Bipolar disorder
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Psychotic disorders including schizophrenia
Who will provide mental health care for my child?
Depending on the diagnosis and other factors, your child’s mental health care may be provided by:
- Social worker
- Psychologist
- Psychiatrist
- Doctor
- Nurse
- Nurse practitioner
Many types of care for different needs
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Cognitive behavioral therapy: clients address and seek to change negative thoughts and patterns into positive actions
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Family therapy: licensed clinicians provide therapeutic treatment for families struggling with a wide variety of issues
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Child-parent psychotherapy: an evidence-based therapy that strengthens the relationship between a parent and child so that both can heal from trauma and violence
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Group therapy: from depression to trauma, children and adolescents explore issues in a safe environment among peers struggling with similar challenges
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Creative therapy: tapping the creative arts for a youngster's healing journey