Child and Adolescent Conditions

Children and adolescents face a number of unprecedented stressors in today's unpredictable world. Signs and symptoms of emotional distress may present differently in children/adolescents compared to adults. Dr. Guinan recognizes there are multiple factors that can influence mood and behavior in this population and takes the time to thoroughly asses for individual needs. Therapy, medications, and nutritional support may be included in recommendations for treatment. Below are some conditions Dr. Guinan has specialized expertise in treating.

 

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD)

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity with impulsive behaviors. Diagnosing and addressing ADHD early is important, as untreated ADHD can negatively impact a child's social development, interfere with academic performance, contribute to poor self esteem, and result in a tremendous amount of stress for families. ADHD is very treatable, and Dr. Guinan is skilled in both assessment and management of this condition.

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can present with a range of symptoms but is typically characterized by impaired social and communication skills with restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests. These developmental differences are usually recognized in the first three years of life and are best diagnosed with a thorough neuropsychological evaluation. While Dr. Guinan does not conduct neuropsychological evaluations, she is able to assess for the need for additional testing and is experienced in using medications and alternative treatments to target challenging behaviors that may arise with autism.

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Behavioral Issues 

Behavioral problems such as defiance, disruptive behaviors, and aggression can be symptoms of underlying illness, such as depression, anxiety or ADHD, or may be related to bullying, abuse or other social problems. Dr. Guinan will perform a thorough psychiatric evaluation and consider all aspects of your child's development to determine the best approach to managing behavioral issues. 

 

Mood Disorders

Mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder can present in a variety of ways in children and adolescents. It is important to consider environment and rule out any potential medical or nutritional contributors when determining how to treat symptoms of depression. Dr. Guinan may recommend laboratory testing to rule out specific conditions and will tailor her treatment to each child or adolescent's individual needs.  

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Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety in children and adolescents can range from fear and avoidance behaviors, difficulties with separation, difficulties with sleep, or sometimes even irritability and anger. Treatment of anxiety can vary and may include psychotherapy, medications, or both. Anxiety is treatable and early intervention can help improve a child or adolescent's sense of confidence, self-esteem, and ability to function and take on life's challenges.

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Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Commonly known as "OCD", obsessive compulsive disorder is a condition marked by a pattern of unwanted intrusive thoughts, fears, images, or sensations that lead to feelings of distress and may be accompanied by repetitive behaviors aimed at neutralizing that distress. OCD in a child can be especially difficult to identify given children often do not spontaneously report symptoms or may minimize their severity. There are many ways to manage OCD including psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of both. Dr. Guinan has treated OCD in a variety of age ranges and takes a comprehensive approach in both her assessment and treatment recommendations. 

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Tics/Tourette Syndrome

A tic is a compulsive, repetitive muscle movement or sound that can be difficult to control. If a child or adolescent has experienced both motor and vocal tics for more than one year, they are diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome. Tics are incredibly common in children (estimates indicate 1 in 5 children will have a tic during childhood) and often resolve on their own with age. However, if tics are interfering with your child's ability to function or is leading to significant issues in social situations, treatment with therapy, medication, or both may be indicated. 

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LGBTQ+ Mental Health

Identity formation is an important step in adolescent development. While a person’s gender identity or sexual orientation may not be a source of distress, people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, asexual, questioning, transgender, non-binary, or any other orientation or gender identity may find that the social stigma of living as a minority is a source of stress, depression, or anxiety. Dr. Guinan has experience and familiarity with the challenges members of the LGBTQ+ community often face and can serve as an ally and advocate for this population. 

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