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
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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.
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