When a child displays abnormal behavior, excessive sadness or aggression, the first step for parents is to figure out what's going on. If you can't figure this out on your own, or if you know what the problem is but can't solve it on your own, seek professional help. When you recognize that your child has a problem that requires psychiatric attention, start looking for a child psychiatrist.
Step 1
Ask your pediatrician. First, he'll make sure there's no medical problem that's causing behavioral issues. He'll discuss with you the psychological problems your child is having and what treatment he might need.
Step 2
Talk to the school counselor or other parents. Counselors have probably had personal experience with psychiatrists in various systems and can direct you to the proper resources. Other parents whose child is experiencing something similar can tell you if the psychiatrist they saw was helpful.
Step 3
Check the website of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Find a psychiatrist through its site by specifying details such as location, language spoken and problems the psychiatrist treats. The site ensures that the psychiatrist you'll see is a fully qualified child psychiatrist.
Step 4
Contact your local mental health center. Mental health centers either have child psychiatrists on staff or know what resources are available in your area. Contact your local medical school, if there is one in your area. Medical schools that have psychiatry training programs, often with low-cost clinics staffed by residents.
