How To Make Telepsychiatry Work With Younger Patients

Telepsychiatry with children and adolescents comes with a different set of challenges. Younger patients may be distracted, restless, reluctant to talk, or more interested in what’s happening around them than what’s happening on screen. But with the right approach, those challenges can become opportunities.In this episode of The Telepsychiatry Advantage, Dr. Edward Kaftarian talks about how to connect with younger patients virtually by meeting them where they are. That might mean using their interests to start a conversation, letting them introduce a pet, using games or whiteboard tools, building in movement, or working with parents to keep the session grounded without making it feel forced. This episode is packed with examples that Dr. Kaftarian has seen work firsthand. He also explains how the home environment can give clinicians information they may never get in an office — from family dynamics and background noise to the child’s room, routines, privacy, and attention patterns.Yes, treating children and adolescents online comes with unique challenges, but it is NOT harder when psychiatrists are prepared. With the right approach, telepsychiatry can be really effective with younger patients. That's what this episode is all about!For more information about Orbit Health, visit us at:https://www.orbithealth.com/