Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist-Outpatient - job 1 of 2

As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at LifeStance Health, you'll focus on providing high-quality outpatient mental healthcare to children and adolescents. Your responsibilities will include conducting detailed psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health issues, managing medication, and delivering therapeutic services. Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, engaging with families, and ensuring continuity of care are also critical components of this role.

To be considered for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist position at LifeStance Health, candidates must be fully licensed in Utah, board eligible or board certified in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, and possess an unencumbered DEA. Additionally, completion of a psychiatry residency program or being close to graduation is essential. Experience in medication management and therapy will enhance your application.

At LifeStance Health, the work environment is designed to be supportive, modern, and welcoming. Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists enjoy a collegial atmosphere with full administrative support, allowing you to focus on quality patient care. Our offices are newly designed with the latest digital technology, fostering a collaborative environment where your contributions are valued.

LifeStance Health offers an exceptional benefits package for Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists, including flexible working hours, generous above-market compensation with unlimited earning potential, a sign-on bonus, and comprehensive health benefits. We believe in a strong work/life balance, providing you with the ability to thrive both professionally and personally.

LifeStance Health recognizes the importance of work/life balance, especially for healthcare professionals. We offer flexible work schedules, prioritizing your well-being while allowing you to fully engage with your patients. Our focus on outpatient care with no weekend commitments further enhances this balance, enabling you to enjoy your personal time without sacrificing professional growth.

To evaluate a child’s mental health effectively, I prioritize building a trusting relationship with both the child and their family. I utilize standardized assessment tools in conjunction with clinical interviews to gather comprehensive information on the child's background, behavior patterns, and symptoms, ensuring a holistic understanding of their needs.

My approach to medication management involves thorough assessments to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. I emphasize open communication with both patients and their families about the benefits and potential side effects of medications to facilitate informed decisions. I closely monitor progress and make adjustments as needed, ensuring a collaborative approach.

Staying current in child psychiatry is vital, so I actively engage in continual education through workshops, conferences, and peer collaborations. I also subscribe to reputable medical journals and partake in online courses to enhance my knowledge of emerging treatment modalities and evidence-based practices to provide the best care for my patients.

One challenging case I managed involved a child with severe anxiety and avoidant behavior. I approached this by initially establishing rapport through play therapy techniques, easing the child’s discomfort. I collaborated with the parents and utilized cognitive-behavioral strategies, setting small goals for gradual exposure. This multi-faceted approach resulted in significant progress over time.

I firmly believe in the integration of therapy alongside medication as a comprehensive approach to treatment. While medication can address symptoms, therapy provides the necessary tools for coping, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. This combined strategy empowers young patients and promotes long-term success in their mental health journeys.

I consider family involvement crucial in the treatment process. I regularly hold family sessions to discuss treatment plans, encourage open communication and address concerns. Educating families about mental health and equipping them with coping strategies fosters a supportive environment, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

To engage younger patients, I often incorporate play therapy, art activities, and age-appropriate language to make the sessions dynamic and relatable. This approach allows children to express their feelings in a comfortable setting, making the therapeutic process enjoyable while facilitating their openness and trust.

I assess the effectiveness of a treatment plan through regular follow-up appointments, evaluating the child’s progress and any changes in symptoms. I utilize feedback from both the child and their parents to refine the treatment strategy, ensuring it remains aligned with their needs and goals.

Cultural competence is essential in my practice, as it allows me to understand and respect the diverse backgrounds of my patients. I adapt my therapeutic approaches to align with their cultural values and beliefs, ensuring that treatment is relatable and effective while fostering trust and inclusivity.

I approach conflicts with openness and empathy, aiming to understand the underlying concerns. Through active listening and collaboration, I work with the patient and their family to address issues candidly while exploring potential compromises. Building a trusting relationship can often resolve disagreements and refocus efforts on the patient’s progress.