Child & Adolescent Psychiatry for Autism | Cadabams CDC
As a parent, finding the right child and adolescent psychiatry for autism can feel overwhelming. You want a team that understands your child’s unique needs and walks beside you every step of the way. At Cadabams CDC, we combine evidence-based psychiatry with compassionate family support so that both you and your child feel safe, understood, and hopeful.
Why Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Matters for Autism
Understanding the Role of Psychiatry in ASD
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neuro-developmental condition that affects how children communicate, learn, and regulate their emotions. Child and adolescent psychiatrists at Cadabams CDC are medical doctors who:
- Identify and manage co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, or depression
- Prescribe and monitor medications when appropriate
- Coordinate care with therapists, teachers, and pediatricians By addressing both the core symptoms of autism and any additional challenges, our specialists help children reach their fullest potential.
Key Benefits for Children & Families
- Faster symptom relief: Targeted medication plans can reduce irritability, aggression, or sleep issues within weeks.
- Improved family harmony: When challenging behaviors decrease, daily routines become less stressful for everyone.
- Long-term skill building: Psychiatric insights guide therapy goals, ensuring all interventions work together.
Our Specialized Services
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
Our psychiatrists partner with clinical psychologists to offer in-depth assessments that include:
- Detailed developmental history from parents and teachers
- Standardized tools such as ADOS-2 and CARS-2
- Medical review to rule out other conditions This thorough process ensures every diagnosis is accurate and individualized.
Evidence-Based Medication Management
When medication is recommended, we:
- Start with the lowest effective dose
- Monitor side effects at 2-week, 4-week, and 3-month follow-ups
- Adjust plans based on school reports and parent feedback Parents receive clear written instructions and 24/7 phone support during titration periods.
Crisis Intervention & Safety Planning
If your child experiences intense meltdowns, self-injury, or suicidal thoughts, our crisis team responds within hours. Together, we create:
- A 3-step safety plan for home and school
- Emergency contact numbers
- Strategies to de-escalate future crises
Family Psychoeducation & Support
Knowledge reduces fear. Our monthly workshops cover:
- Understanding sensory overload
- Positive behavior strategies
- Managing parental stress and burnout
The Treatment Process: Step-by-Step
1. Initial Consultation & Intake
- 60-minute session with parents and child
- Discussion of concerns, medical history, and goals
- Scheduling of further assessments
2. Detailed Assessment & Diagnosis
- 2–3 separate visits combining psychiatry, psychology, and allied health input
- Play-based observation for younger children
- Feedback meeting within 10 days to share results
3. Personalized Treatment Plan
Each plan outlines:
- Medication options (if needed)
- Therapy recommendations (speech, ABA, OT)
- School collaboration strategies Parents receive a printed copy and access to our secure parent portal.
4. Ongoing Monitoring & Adjustments
- Quick 15-minute check-ins every 4–6 weeks
- Annual comprehensive review
- Same-day virtual consults when new issues arise
When to Seek Child and Adolescent Psychiatry for Autism
Red Flags in Early Childhood
- No spoken words by 18 months
- Loss of previously acquired language or social skills
- Extreme distress during minor routine changes
Challenges During Adolescence
- Sudden onset of mood swings or anxiety
- School refusal or academic decline
- Social isolation or bullying
Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions
Look for signs of:
- ADHD: Constant motion, impulsivity beyond typical ASD
- Anxiety: Excessive worry, physical complaints, avoidance
- Depression: Prolonged sadness, changes in appetite or sleep Early psychiatric input can prevent these conditions from escalating.
Meet Our Multidisciplinary Team
Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists
Board-certified doctors with 10+ years of autism-specific experience.
Clinical Psychologists & Behavior Therapists
Experts in ABA, CBT, and social-skills training.
Speech & Occupational Therapists
Specialists who target communication barriers and sensory challenges. All team members meet weekly to review progress and refine goals.
Family Resources & Support
Parent Training Workshops
Monthly 90-minute sessions held on Saturdays (childcare provided).
Sibling Support Groups
Fun, age-appropriate groups that teach brothers and sisters how to understand and cope with autism.
Online Learning Modules
Short videos and worksheets accessible 24/7 via our parent portal