Log InSign Up
Article

What does a Child Psychiatrist do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A child psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in children and adolescents. Child psychiatrists use a variety of techniques to help children, including psychotherapy, medication, and family therapy.

Child Psychiatrist job duties include:

  • Assessing and diagnosing mental health conditions in children and young people
  • Devising and implementing treatment plans
  • Liaising with other professionals, such as teachers, social workers and GPs
  • Prescribing medication
  • Carrying out psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
  • Undertaking research into child mental health conditions
  • Teaching medical students and trainee psychiatrists
  • Supervising junior colleagues
  • Attending conferences and meetings

Child Psychiatrist Job Requirements

A Child Psychiatrist must have a medical degree from an accredited institution and must complete a three-year residency in psychiatry. In addition, they must obtain a license to practice medicine in the state in which they will be working. Child Psychiatrists must also be board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. They must have at least two years of experience working with children and adolescents in a clinical setting.

Child Psychiatrist Skills

  • Listening
  • Empathy
  • Patience
  • Communication
  • Observation
  • Interpretation
  • Problem-solving
  • Flexibility
  • Creativity
  • Knowledge of child development
  • Awareness of mental health disorders
  • Ability to work with families

Related: Top Child Psychiatrist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Child Psychiatrist

A Child Psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in children. To become a Child Psychiatrist, one must first complete a 4-year undergraduate degree, followed by 4 years of medical school. After completing medical school, Child Psychiatrists must complete a 3-year residency in psychiatry. After completing their residency, Child Psychiatrists must pass a certification exam administered by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Related: Child Psychiatrist Resume Example

Related: Child Psychiatrist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles