When a therapist or case manager evaluates the child’s condition and reaches the opinion that it is medically necessary for a child to see a psychiatrist, the therapist or case manager discusses it with the parent. In those situations, most often there is a belief that medication may be helpful to the child. If the parent agrees, an appointment for a psychiatric evaluation occurs. In that assessment the psychiatrist will decide if medication could be helpful. The psychiatrist will discuss the options with the parent or guardian and together they will decide whether or not to begin medication.

Sometimes the parent and psychiatrist do not come to a decision on that visit, but rather the psychiatrist sends additional information home with the parent to consider and they schedule a follow-up visit where the parent will relate their decision.

The psychiatrist will talk with the parent about the risks with the medication, as well as the risk in not using medication. Ultimately it is the parent’s decision. If the parent decides not to have the child receive medication, further appointments with the psychiatrist will not be scheduled.