Who we help
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Yes, Bolante Psychiatry provides psychiatric care for children and teens in New Jersey. We offer evaluations, supportive counseling and careful medication management, working closely with parents and guardians throughout.
What is child and adolescent psychiatry?
Child and adolescent psychiatry focuses on the mental health of young people. It recognizes that children and teens are still developing, so their symptoms, needs and treatment often look different from an adult’s.
Care for our young patients is provided by a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. The approach is compassionate and evidence-based, and plans are built around each child and family rather than a standard template.
What concerns do we help children and teens with?
Young people experience many of the same conditions as adults, though they may show them differently. We commonly help with:
- Attention, focus and impulse-control concerns, including ADHD evaluation and care for adolescents
- Anxiety, worry, panic and school-related fears
- Depression, irritability and mood changes
- OCD, intrusive thoughts and body-focused behaviors such as hair-pulling or skin-picking
- Sleep problems and trouble winding down at night
- Anger, aggression and low self-esteem
What signs suggest your child may need support?
Every child has ups and downs. Consider reaching out if changes last for weeks or affect daily life, such as:
- Ongoing sadness, irritability or frequent outbursts
- Worry or fears that keep your child from school, activities or friends
- Falling grades, or growing trouble focusing and finishing work
- Pulling away from family or friends
- Big changes in sleep, appetite or energy
- Repetitive behaviors or rituals that cause distress
- Talk of hopelessness, self-harm or not wanting to be here
How does care work for families?
- 1
Reaching out
A parent or guardian books through Headway or calls (201) 616-1371. We’ll confirm a time and send secure intake forms.
- 2
A family-centered evaluation
The first visit is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Parents or guardians share history and observations, and your child or teen has a chance to describe their own experience.
- 3
A plan you understand
We explain our impressions in plain language and talk through options, which may include counseling strategies, lifestyle changes and, when appropriate, medication.
- 4
Ongoing follow-ups
Regular visits track progress, adjust the plan and keep the family involved as things change.
How are parents involved?
Parents and guardians are essential partners in a young person’s care. Services for minors are provided only with parental or guardian consent, and families take part in planning and follow-up.
Teens also benefit from space to speak for themselves. Your provider will explain how privacy works for adolescents, including what is shared with parents and when safety concerns have to be shared.
How can parents support care at home?
Consistent routines, predictable sleep and clear expectations give most young people a steadier foundation. So does naming feelings out loud and noticing effort rather than only results.
Your provider can suggest approaches that suit your child’s age and situation, and can talk with you about what to do during difficult moments. Small, consistent changes at home often reinforce whatever happens in sessions.
It also helps to keep the focus on curiosity rather than blame. Many behaviors that look like defiance are a young person’s attempt to manage something they cannot yet explain.
Can you help with school needs?
Yes. After an evaluation, we can provide appropriate school notes and documentation when clinically indicated. With your written consent, we can also coordinate with your child’s therapist or primary care provider so everyone is working toward the same goals.
How is medication used for children and teens?
Medication is one option among several, and it is considered carefully for young people. When it is appropriate, your provider explains the reasoning, possible benefits and side effects, then monitors your child closely with regular follow-ups through medication management.
When clinically appropriate and legally permitted, controlled medications such as stimulants for ADHD may be prescribed with careful monitoring, verification of records and regular follow-ups.
Where do families meet with us?
Most visits happen through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform, which makes care easier to fit around school and family schedules anywhere in New Jersey. In-person visits are available at our Hackensack office when clinically appropriate.
Explore the conditions we treat, learn what to expect from a psychiatric evaluation, or book through Headway.
If your child is in crisis
We are not an emergency service. If your child is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For 24/7 support in the U.S., call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
Frequently asked questions
What age groups do you see?
We provide psychiatric care for children, teens and adults. ADHD evaluations are offered for adolescents and adults. If you’re unsure whether we’re the right fit for your child’s age and needs, call (201) 616-1371 and we can talk it through before you book.
Does my child need a psychiatric provider or a therapist?
A therapist focuses on counseling, while a psychiatric provider can evaluate symptoms, make a diagnosis, provide supportive counseling and prescribe medication when appropriate. If symptoms are significant, persistent or not improving with therapy alone, an evaluation can clarify next steps. With your consent, we can coordinate with your child’s therapist.
Should I tell my child about the appointment ahead of time?
Usually, yes. A simple, honest explanation eases worry. You might say they’ll be talking with someone whose job is to help kids and teens feel better. Let them know they aren’t in trouble and can ask questions. For video visits, set up a quiet, private spot beforehand.
Can my teen’s visits be virtual?
Yes. Most visits take place through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform, so your teen can meet from home. Many families find this easier to fit around school and activities. In-person visits at our Hackensack office are available when clinically appropriate.
Will my child be put on medication?
Not necessarily. Medication is considered only when it’s clinically appropriate, and it’s discussed openly with you first. Many plans start with counseling strategies, routines and school support. If medication is recommended, your provider explains why and monitors your child closely.
Your Next Step Toward Feeling Better Starts Here
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or simply need support — help is available. Reach out today to schedule a virtual appointment and take the first step toward clarity and calm.
Confidential. Compassionate. Convenient. Your care, your pace, your peace of mind.