New Behavioral Health Care Models for Kids

Children’s mental health challenges are rising worldwide, yet access to effective care remains limited. In this episode, we explore new approaches to pediatric mental health with three leaders working to expand access and improve outcomes.Kristina Saffran, CEO of Equip, explains why eating disorders are one of the most misunderstood public health crises affecting children and adults, and how evidence-based family-based treatment can dramatically improve recovery when delivered earlier and more broadly.Dana Klein, co-founder of Gheorg, shares how a new generation of child-centered digital tools is helping children ages 7–12 build emotional resilience, develop coping skills, and identify mental health challenges before they escalate.Sophia Waitt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, adds the perspective of a therapist working directly with teens and young adults, discussing the mental health impact of social media, identity pressure, and digital environments on developing minds.Together, the conversation explores how innovation, technology, and early intervention can help address one of the most urgent pediatric health challenges of our time.Episode Resources:National Alliance For Eating DisordersDr Louise Metcalf, Gheorg Founder & PsychologistSocial media ban in AustraliaConnect with Kristina Saffran:Kristina Saffran LinkedInEquip WebsiteEquip LinkedInEquip InstagramConnect with Dana Klein:Dana Klein LinkedInGheorg WebsiteGheorg LinkedInGheorg InstagramConnect with Sophia Watt:Sophia Waitt - Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFTSophia Waitt LinkedInKincove WebsiteKincove LinkedInKincove InstagramConnect with us:KidsX WebsiteKidsX LinkedInChildren's Hospital L.A. WebsiteChildren's Hospital L.A. InstagramChildren's Hospital L.A. LinkedIn