Behavioral Health Services
Supporting your child's mental health and emotional well-being with comprehensive psychological care and counseling services tailored to their unique needs.
Pediatric Behavioral Health Services in Primary Care
Comprehensive mental health services designed specifically for children and adolescents.
In today's world, we understand that mental health is every bit as important as physical health. At Olentangy Pediatrics we believe that it is important to prioritize all aspects of your child's health.
Because of this, we ensure that behavioral health services are integrated into the care we provide. This may look like a check in during one of your doctor visits, or a scheduled visit with one of our psychologists. They will work with you and your pediatrician when behaviors or emotional concerns are impacting your child's daily life and will collaborate to help monitor your child's development over time.
Diagnostic Assessments
Evaluations for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other behavioral concerns using evidence-based assessment tools.
Individual Therapy
One-on-one counseling sessions tailored to both parent and childs needs, helping families and individuals develop coping skills and emotional resilience.
Family Counseling
Supporting the whole family through challenges, improving communication, and strengthening relationships.
Educational Support
Collaboration with schools and teachers to address academic challenges and implement effective learning strategies.
What To Expect–Consultation and Therapy
Understanding the journey to better mental health for your child
Initial Consultation
Our psychologists are available to meet for an initial consult visit with you or you and your child to discuss your concerns and offer recommendations for next steps for assessment or treatment. Dr. Ackerman or Dr. Guthrie may also recommend a limited number of assessment or follow up visits.
Ongoing Treatment
If therapy is recommended in the initial consultation, more sessions with the same psychologist may be scheduled, or you may receive a referral outside of Olentangy Pediatrics. This decision depends on how you and your child wish to proceed, provider availability, and your specific needs.
Benefits of Talk Therapy
Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," can effectively address a wide range of mental health concerns. While opening up to a therapist may be difficult initially, therapy can lead to significant improvements in areas such as learning, relationships, and daily activities.
Therapy can help your child:
- Manage strong emotions
- Build and improve relationships
- Become more assertive
- Think more positively
- Solve problems more effectively
- Change unhelpful behaviors
- Face challenges with greater courage
- Enhance problem solving
For more information on therapy:
What To Expect–Psychological Assessment
Understanding the evaluation process to help determine the best support for your child
Assessment Overview
In some situations, your physician or psychologist may suggest a psychological assessment to provide additional information about your child's symptoms and determine the most effective treatment approach. Our team will collaborate with you to explore the best assessment options for your child's unique needs.
Types of Assessments
We may recommend (offer) different types of psychological assessments based on your child's specific needs:
- Brief ADHD Evaluations: For children 6-12 years old, our psychologists provide focused assessments for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
- Other Evaluations: For children outside the 6-12 age range or with additional attention or learning concerns, we coordinate referrals to specialized psychologists who provide more extensive testing.
The Assessment Process
Our psychological assessment process is structured to gather necessary information while keeping your child's comfort in mind:
- Insurance carriers often require pre-authorization for psychological testing. Our billing department can help determine if this is necessary.
- Initial Consultation: An information-gathering session with parents (and sometimes children) to understand history and concerns.
- Information Collection: Completion of behavioral forms by parents and teachers.
- Child Assessment: A dedicated session between your child and the psychologist.
- Feedback Session: Discussion of results, treatment recommendations, and answering any questions.
Behavioral Health Resources
Recommended websites, books, and resources to support your child's mental health journey
Anxiety Resources
Recommended Websites
Recommended Apps
- Mindshift App
- Panic Shield
- Fear Tools
Recommended Books
For School-age Children (6-13)
- "What to Do When You Worry Too Much" by Dawn Huebner (ages 6-10)
- "Outsmarting Worry: An Older Kid's Guide to Managing Anxiety" by Dawn Huebner (ages 9-13)
For Parents
- "Freeing Your Child From Anxiety" by Tamar Chansky
- "Growing Up Brave" by Donna Pincus
ADHD Resources
Recommended Resources
- CHADD.org
- "Taking Charge of ADHD" by Russell Barkley
- "30 Essential Ideas for Parents" (Russell Barkley YouTube video)
Executive Function Resources
- "Smart but Scattered" by Guare and Dawson
- "Smart but Scattered Teens" by Guare and Dawson
Additional Mental Health Resources
Mindfulness Apps
- Calm
- Headspace
- SmilingMind
Mood Tracking
- Daylio
- MoodTools
- MindDoc
Crisis Resources
Ready to Get Started?
Take the first step towards supporting your child's mental health. Contact Us with our behavioral health team today.
Child Behavioral Health Services in Columbus, Ohio
At Olentangy Pediatrics, our behavioral health services provide comprehensive mental health care for children and adolescents. Our team of experienced child psychologists and mental health professionals delivers evidence-based treatment in a supportive, child-friendly environment.
Comprehensive Mental Health Services
- ADHD evaluation and treatment
- Anxiety and depression management
- Behavioral therapy
- Family counseling
- Social skills development
- Academic support services
Our Approach to Child Mental Health
We believe in a holistic, family-centered approach to mental health care. Our treatment plans are individually tailored to each child's needs, incorporating the latest evidence-based practices in child psychology. We work closely with families, schools, and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care and support.
Expert Child Psychology Team
Our behavioral health team consists of board-certified child psychologists, licensed therapists, and mental health specialists who specialize in pediatric care. We have extensive experience in treating a wide range of childhood mental health conditions and behavioral challenges.
Treatment Methods and Approaches
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Play Therapy
- Family Systems Therapy
- Behavioral Intervention
- Social Skills Training
- Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
Insurance and Accessibility
We accept most major insurance plans and work to make mental health care accessible to all families. Our staff can help you understand your coverage and explore payment options. We believe that every child deserves access to quality mental health care, and we strive to make our services available to families throughout the Columbus area.