Thinking It Through with Dr. Naidoo, Child Psychiatrist

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo discusses 3 basic levels of care in the Mental Health System- which include the Emergency Room, Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital and Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic.  Often times the goal of the Level of care/Institution, the Parent/Guardian and the patient differ wildly.  This can result in frustration and disappointment with treatment. Knowing these goals can help with expectation management and empowerment.  Listen in to learn about these goals to help you advocate for the best mental health care at your child's level of care. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo introduces her focus for the month of May - which is Mental Health Awareness Month- to talk about discussing different levels of care.  She discusses what often happens when parents ask for different levels of care- magical thinking with high expectations to solve problems and " fix the problem."  Dr. Naidoo addresses several myths about what " higher levels of care" can and cannot offer.  During the month of may- she will discuss several levels of care and her experience and assessment of what can be realistically obtained in these levels- and how parents can advocate for their child's needs in each level. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares an analogy between over filling her cup holder with pens to handling overwhelm in life.  Listen in as she shares some tips on how to manage life when there is way too much in your cup.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares a situation from her own life to help us consider the timing of action.  Often times we Know Better- but it is the action of Doing Better that is sometimes harder.  When do we test something out?  Is there a perfect time?  Listen in to Dr. Naidoo's reflection to help you consider how when you know what to do - the perfect time is right now. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo interviews the mom of a former patient who is an incredible woman who has done extensive work helping parents raise youth on the Spectrum. In addition to raising her two children, one of whom is on the Autism Spectrum, she has made several initiatives to help educate her community about motherhood, co parenting after divorce, raising healthy and happy children.  She is full of joy and enthusiasm and it is an honor to share her journey with you today.  Listen in and share this story with another mom raising a child on the spectrum!If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares some pearls from the WPW conference to help parents manage their reactivity when it comes to their children.  This tool can be useful for parents, health professionals and patients especially when life makes us stressed. She shares an insight from Dr. Sharon Stein- and how this insight can help us consider different ways to manage our emotions. Dr. Naidoo also shares an insight from one of her former therapists that helps us further learn how to cope when our emotions flare in reaction to life's circumstances.Listen to Dr. Sharon Stein's Podcast here- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-intentional-surgeon-with-sharon-l-stein-md/id1745495800If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo reflects on a patient interaction in a skills group.  She shares how groups can help facilitate knowledge.- and uses an interaction with a patient in the group to demonstrate how she brings her skills as a psychiatrist, therapist, educator and coach to patient interactions. She shares the skill of creating a thought ladder to work up to affirmations that can climb toward inevitable belief in self.  Tune in as she shares- If-Firmations, Can-Firmations and I am-Firmations- frameworks for trying on different thought patterns to build belief. Dr. Naidoo also shares a fellow physician coach's frame work of the " 5 Phases of Belief" by Dr. Priyanka Venugopal, MD.    Listen to Dr. Priyanka Venugopal's episode about the 5 Phases of Belief here!https://burnstressloseweight.com/how-to-believe-in-yourself-2/If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo reflects on an analogy to help explain her role for all of her patients, in every intervention, regardless of age or situation for the patient.  Dr. Naidoo shares one of her favorite quotations from Mahatma Gandhi and how this quotation has come to fruition in her own life experiences and practice. Listen to this episode and pay it forward-- this week-- Can you help remind someone of their own little light?Dr. Naidoo shares an insight from colleague Dr. Bove- check out her podcast below!https://www.loveandsciencefertility.com/thepodcastIf You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares an experience of getting coached on highway driving.  She draws parallels between her Drivers Ed coach and mental health coaches, therapists and psychiatrists, demonstrating the value of mental health support.  In whatever way you choose, seeking to support your own mental health with a professional can help you feel less afraid, less alone, more possible and help get you onto the highway to health. Tune in as she shares her insights to consider seeking support for yourself or a loved one. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo interviews integrative psychiatrist Dr. Hector.  Dr. Hector's innovative care reaches audiences in Miami and beyond.  In this episode, Dr. Hector and Dr. Naidoo discuss how trauma can impact the brain, relationships between parents and children, and have generational impact. Listen in as they share how to provide trauma informed care with empowerment and compassion.Learn more about Dr. Hector here- https://www.doctorhector.com/If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo discusses her reasoning for declining to prescribe as needed medication for anxiety in youth. Dr. Naidoo speaks about other coping strategies and how identity formation is impacted by diagnoses and medications.  She shares her assessment, philosophy and understanding of how prn anxiety medications can impact youth development. If you or your child are prescribed a prn medication for anxiety- please follow your medical professional's recommendations.  You are encouraged to use the information shared in this podcast to help advocate for your child. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares how  she discussses medciation options with BOTH Guardians and Patient presents.  She describes the reasons how presenting several options can help empower choice, self advocacy, open dialoage and patient accountability. Whether you are a parent, a patient or a pediatric provider, this episode will help you set the frame for your own empowerment regarding the difficult decision to take a psychiatric medication. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo reviews the reason for obtaining consent from legal guardians of minors in mental health care and why child psychiatrists ensure they obtain consent from the legal guardian.  She also reviews the term  "assent" how this is different than  " consent." Understanding these terms can empower parents, guardians and patients to advocate for themselves and their own mental health care needs.  Please review the laws for the particular state in which your child resides. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/age-of-consent-for-mental-health-treatment-by-stateIf You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this 13 Reasons Why Series- Dr. Naidoo Focus on explaining the reasons behind why child psychiatrists do what they do.  Listen in to this episode as she explains why Child Psychiatrists often prioritize speaking to youth first, even when their parents/guardians are present in the visit.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo breaks down her upcoming presentation at the WPW Conference of How to Give Yourself Credit and Believe it for women physicians.  She believes the points in this presentation can be useful for so many people- especially YOU.  If you are working on building up your self esteem, your confidence, your self assurance, tune into these epsiodes.  In this fourth and FINAL episode she reviews some points that didnt make it into her presentation- but are still super important to work on the still of seeing, hearing and appreciating yourself.  Try out the skills she shares and see if one works for you!  The only way to know if a skill really works is to test it out. Tune in the final episode of this series to consider how you can start to notice the things that suprise, touch, inspire and fill you with self appreciation and graditute.  Cheers to  giving yourself MORE CREDIT and BELIEVING IT in 2026!!!If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo breaks down her upcoming presentation at the WPW Conference of How to Give Yourself Credit and Believe it for women physicians.  She believes the points in this presentation can be useful for so many people- especially YOU.  If you are working on building up your self esteem, your confidence, your self assurance, tune into these epsiodes.  In this third episode she shares some skills on how you can start to APPRECIATE yourself by validating your own conscience and starting to recognize the little facts of life that deserve credit. Learning how to reassure yourself and remind yourself of your value and worth in small ways every day will add up to a firmer sense of self. Tune in to learn how you can practice self validation and learn how to give yourself credit and believe it- finally!If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo breaks down her upcoming presentation at the WPW Conference of How to Give Yourself Credit and Believe it for women physicians.  She believes the points in this presentation can be useful for so many people- especially YOU.  If you are working on building up your self esteem, your confidence, your self assurance, tune into these epsiodes.  In this second episode she shares some skills on how you can start to HEAR yourself more often and authentically. Listening into how you speak to yourself, and feeling empowered to choose your words and what inner dialogue you listen to can dramatically shift your mood and self esteem. Tune in to learn how you can practice hearing the inner voice that helps you shine brighter.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo breaks down her upcoming presentation at the WPW Conference of How to Give Yourself Credit and Believe it for women physicians.  She believes the points in this presentation can be useful for so many people- especially YOU.  If you are working on building up your self esteem, your confidence, your self assurance, tune into these epsiodes.  In this first episode she shares some skills on how you can start to SEE yourself more often and authentically. Tune in to learn how you can practice noticing your own worth.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN, Dr. Naidoo rings in the New Year with some reflections on working on refining your goals. For the Month of January-she will share the core speaking points of  "How to Give Yourself Credit and Believe It"  from a presentation she will be giving at the WPW Conference in Feb 2026.  Designed for Women Physicians, these core meta skills of how to acknowledge yourself and to accept the acknowledgement can be utilized by young patients and parents as well as fellow medical professionals. Listen in as she sets the stage for how to work on the goal of giving yourself credit.https://www.womenphysicianswellness.com/climbIf You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo tackles the " Goodness of Fit" of a therapeutic intervention and patient.  All treatments come to an end.  Sometimes the patients want it first, sometimes the provider wants it first.  Always- there are feelings on both ends about treatment ending or changing.  Listen in as Dr. Naidoo shares why some providers may feel that they are no longer a ' good fit" for your child, and how to move forward from there. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN, Dr. Naidoo switches seats and becomes a patient!  She reflects on an interaction she had with her cardiologist and how this shifts her perspective of practice, patients understanding, and goals of education and empowerment in the medical setting.  Dr. Naidoo reflects on feeling overwhelmed as a patient and provides insight on how to make sense of extensive medcial reccomendations. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episodes of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares her experience of how she handles parents concern about  psychiatric treatment of youth- particularly when they have recently been discharged from an inpatient mental health hospital. Dr. Naidoo shares the challenges of how over medicating youth in many inpatient psychiatric hospitals have lead to difficulties with building trust and  heeding guidance from experienced medical professionals. Listen in to learn how she navigated this common concern and consider how this information can help you better advocate for your child's mental health care needs.  If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo helps you think through SSRI medications and how to assess whether it helps your child.   LIsten in as Dr. Naidoo discusses a SUDS scale or Subjective Units of Distress Scale  and how this can be helpful to assess for medication changes.  She also describes why it is important to hear the patient/youth perspective, the parent/guardian persepective and even other providers perspectives to help figure out if medications are helpful or not.  Listen in for her advocacy tips to help you share your experiences with your own provider.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo interviews Dr. Stephanie Marks a DNP, a colleague, an educator, a mother and dear friend.  Dr. Marks is a doctorate level psychiatric nurse practitoner who provides exceptional compassionate care in Tuscon, Airizona.  As access to Mental Health Care in America continues to be a challenge, throughout the country, nurse practioners have answered the call to meet the need.  Unlike Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrists, the path to become a psychaitric nurse practioner is varied.  Dr. Marks sheds some light on this process and helps us understand the unique strengths provided by Nurse Practioners, and helps you learn how to advocate to receive the best mental health care possible.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo reflects on an internal conflict- feeling the thrill of multitasking and feeling drained because of it.   Reflecting on our thoughts help us to Know Better.  From this self reflection and awareness, we can make changes and DoBetter.  The results of this action + knowledge  can help us to Feel Better. Listen in as Dr. Naidoo thinks through the paradox of Multitasking and its effect on Mood. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo reflects on an interaction with a parent regarding changing a psychaitric medication for their child.   At the end of the day there are many factors when it comes to the right time to decide to try a medication, and there are ample reasons to hesitate to medicate.  Listen in as she thinks it through and shares helpful insights for parents to consider when it comes to psychiatric medicationsIf You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Epsiode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo interviews her Summer Intern at DoBetterMD- Ria Vir.  Ria is an expereinced youth mental health advocate, who has volunteered since the age of 15 at Teen Lifeline in Arizona. She reflects on this experience, and her own mental wellness journey in this podcast episode. Tune in as she shares advocacy tips on what youth can do to improve their mental health and how parents can support them.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN, Dr. Naidoo discusses some of the pros and cons of involving the school in supporting your child.  She reflects on a recent school summit that she attended, and shares some unique ways that schools are trying to meet the need of providing mental health care for kids who are struggling. Listen in to help think through whether involving the school could be helpful for you and your child. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo interviews Dr. Sandhya Masih, DO- a Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatrist and the founder of Rare Bloom Psychiatry. Dr. Masih is also a consultant for APAL- the Arizona Perinatal Access Line, where she provides primary care providers and OBGYNs across the stage of Arizona with expert recommendations for complex clinical cases.   Listen in as she shares her expertise with us to help us understand our Menstrual Cycle, Mood and PMDD.  Its a must listen for anyone who gets moody around their cycle!If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares her personal October Challenge to increase her fiber intake.  She shares how fiber and food intake can potentially improve mental health.  She discusses how fiber intake creates short chain fatty acids that cross the blood brain barrier and can help with brain functioning.  Listen in as she tacles this topic, and join her in the challenge to increase your fiber!If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episodes of TTDN, Dr. Naidoo interviews Scottsdale Psychiatrist- Dr. Saba Mansoor.  Dr. Mansoor specializes in Good Psychiatric Management of patients with several mental health concerns, like ADHD, Anxiety, and Mood disorder, but has a particular interest and expertise in working with patients with Borderline Personality Disorder [BPD.] Dr. Mansoor shares her insights about youth with emotional dysregulation and rejection sensitivity, and how these traits of impulsivity may be an indicator of BPD.  This episode is a must for any patient or parent dealing with self harm, impulse control or intense peer relationships. Listen in as she shares her framework to better understand why emotional hyperreactivity is a core feature of BPD and how to help best address this concern.  If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN: Dr. Naidoo shares how anyone- parents, caring adults, friends have help support a young person with dark thoughts and suicidal thoughts by inviting them to think about their future.  Future orientation is protective against suicide.  Listen in as Dr. Naidoo helps you think through how to have these courageous conversations with a young person you love. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo discusses Safety Planning 101.  If a youth you love has dark thoughts or self harm thoughts, a Safey Plan is a Survival Plan. Dr. Naidoo has spoken on this topic extensively with parents, pediatricians and mental health care providers.  She breaks down the basic safety plan and demonstrates how you can use this tool to keep your child safe.    You can download her Survive and Thrive Safety Plan on her website www.DoBetterMD.comIf You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo talks about coping skills.  After treating thousands of youth, she reflects on how often youth use the words " coping skills"  but don't use the skills. She shares her Acronym for C.O.P.E. in effort to help guide youth to find strategies that actually work. Tune in as she thinks it through with you.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo kicks off Suicide Prevention month with speaking to psychologist and the founder of the Semicolon Society- Dr. McCall.  Dr. McCall is the founder and president of the Semicolon Society- an Arizona based non-profit that focuses on mental health  and suicide prevention.  Listen in as Dr. McCall shares the origin story of the Semicolon Society and its impact on her community.  The semicolon symbolises a sentence continued.  Share this episode with someone you love who needs a bit of extra encouragement to keep going.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Technically her 100th episode, Dr. Naidoo reflects on reasons why the podcast was started and what she looks forward to during the 100 episodes! Thank you for joining her on this journey!  If you have any questions you would like her to answer- please email her at [email protected] You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo explains why it is so hard to get a " REAL" Diagnosis for mental health concerns when working with people 0 -25. Listen in as she shares her thoughts on how to make sense of the confusing system of mental health care and mixed messages that some mental health care professionals may be sending.  Learn how to make sense of confusing diagnostic impressions and how to move forward even when things may not be clear.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN, Dr. Naidoo interviews Immigration Attorney Vesna Chinsammy.  Vesna reflects on her work and her own personal journey as an immgrant to the US to help provide context of the unique mental health challenges that can emerge for immigrants and those seeking citizenship in the US. Vesna reflects on how anxiety shows up in various forms for many immigrants that she supports in her practice. Listen in as she shares  insights that may help you or your family navigate the stress of the legal system in cases of seeking legal status in the US.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares an example from her own life- of her son suddenly developing an unknown rash and how she manages her own differential diagnosis and stress from the unknown cause.  Dr. Naidoo draws some parallells between her son's treatment and her experience as a parent with how she may approach symptoms that appear in her patients.  Dr. Naidoo shares how much of medicine is focused on treating symptoms.  Although we strive for diagnostic clarity, when our children are symptomatic and these symptoms are impairing- we move forward with the management of these symptoms even if there still are many unknowns.  Listen in as she thinks through her son's expereince and how she helps her patients think through mental health treatment. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

Have you ever wondered if your psychiatrist is the right fit for you? In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares how to tell, and what you can look for to help you know better.  She shares the qualities and characteristics of a good child psychiatrist, and insights from her own practice.  Learn how your psychiatrist can become a critical part of your mental health team, listening to you, supporting you and cheering for you along the way.  If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares her thoughts on her kids returning to school.  She reflects on how the school setting can provide valuable social- emotional skills, and help youth learn not only about others, but ultimately about themselves. If your kid is having the back to school jitters- or even if you are as their parent!- tune in for a reframe to learn how school is way more than just academics.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this special episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo interviews Dr. Achina Stein- a psychiatrist, mom and functional medicine physician.  Dr. Stein started out as a psychiatrist and practiced psychiatry for years.  When her son suddenly developed mental health struggles, Dr. Stein went on a journey to help find the root cause of his symptoms- opening her world and understanding of Functional Medicine.  She has gone above and beyond to specialize in Functional Medicine and her private practice Funtional Mind and book- "What if Its Not Depression?"   Listen to her share the story of her journey to becoming a Functional Medicine Doctor, and how her unique approach may help you the best mental health care possible.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of Thinking It Thorugh with Dr. Naidoo- Child Psychiatrist, she speaks with the parent of a former parent who is also a life coach, mom of 8, survivor of severe post partum depression, and advocate for the micronutrient- EMPower Plus.  EMPower plus is a micronutrient with emerging evidence to be helpful for many mental health conditions. The most significant evidence is for improvement of ADHD symptoms. Listen as Ms. Jarman shares her journey through depression, as she thinks through the choices that have helped her to emerge empowered.  Her story will inspire you and build a greater awareness of how nutrition can impact mental health.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN, Dr. Kartha from GeneSight joins us again to talk about MTHFR.  The functioning of this particular little enzyme may have a big impact on your mental health. Listen in as Dr. Kartha and Dr. Naidoo speak this enzyme, pharmacogenomic testing , and the role of folate in producing essential neurotransmitters that regulate mood and anxiety. Of all the supplements out there, Folic Acid and its metabolites has substantial evidence to dramaticallhy help mental health. Knowing your variation of the MTHFR gene may be helpful in improving your mental wellness and health. Learn more about it in this special episode.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo continues to focus on food and vitamins as medicine. When it comes to your mental health and physical health Vitamin D is a critical vitamin that most of America is deficient in!  Listen in as Dr. Naidoo interviews her Dr. Sarah Shell, a Naturopathic Medical Doctor based here in Arizona, to tell us all we need to know about how Vitamin D supplementation can greatly impact your health and wellness.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Listen in as Dr. Naidoo thinks through vitamins and supplements for mental health care. One of the most common questions when it comes to mental health care is  "Is there anything else I can do naturally?"  Dr. Naidoo has additional certificate in Nutritional Psychiatry. She speaks about how vitamins and medications are differ, and how to manage expectations when thinking about whether vitamins can be helpful.  Dr. Naidoo also shares how vitamins can be very different brand to brand and gives tips on how to find the a brand that you can trust.  For the rest of the month- TTDN features interviews about the topic of vitamins and supplements in mental health care- consider this episode a primer to to help you think through whether vitamins could be helpful for you.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares how to address the challenge of medication adherence- or remembering to take your medication often enough that it actually helps your mental health.  Dr. Naidoo reviews concepts such as Habit stacking, setting accountability standards, and building routines with youth adherece and parental supervision in mind.  Listen in to her hacks on how to get your youth to get their medication from bottle to belly.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo answers a question raised by one of her patients- "How do I support a friend's mental health who doesnt feel comfortable talking to anyone else but me?"  Every day, we are called upon to support people we love and care about in order to help their mental health.  How can we help them while also protecting our own mental health? Very often teens and young adults serve the role of a "Therapy Friend."  As a psychiatrist, Dr. Naidoo has often seen how playing this role can cause tremendous stress and burn out. Listen in as she shares her perspective on how to create internal boundaries and how to keep yourself and any friend safe.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo interviews Family Medicine Physician, Educator, 2x Ted Speaker and Trauma Therapist- Dr. Christine Gibson.  Also known as the #tiktocktraumadoc Dr. Gibson shares her insightful experiences to help patients and providers alike through gifted storytelling.  For anyone who has endured the effects of trauma, and feels that these battle scars go unnoticed- listen in as Dr. Gibson helps us gain a better understanding of how trauma shapes our experiences and impacts our life trajectory.  Her advice brings light to the darkness and hope for us all. If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com

In this Episode of TTDN- Dr. Naidoo shares how she discusses the Black Box Warning with parents and young patients.  Dr. Naidoo reviews the evidence and shares her clinical experiences in treating youth with SSRIs and how this warning has impacted care and how patients on an SSRI trial can advocate for themselves. Symptoms and signs to watch for to help you advocate with your own medical provider is reviewed and encouraged.If You or someone you Love is in a mental health crisis- Please Call- 988If You or someone you Love is in a medical crisis - Please Call- 911For More information about Dr. Shivana Naidoo, MD, please visit www.DoBetterMD.com