Behavioral Health

"Children’s Health is a leader in behavioral health, recognized as one of the nation’s most comprehensive programs for diagnosing and treating pediatric psychological and psychiatric conditions. In Texas alone, approximately 600,000 children require mental health care, and our dedicated experts are here to support. We offer a wide variety of specialized programs as well as provider and practice resources."

James Norcross, M.D.
Pediatric Psychiatrist and Division Director of Behavioral Health, Children's Health
Professor, UT Southwestern

PATIENT OUTCOMES

92.6% of BH patients that presented to ED received a consultation within 2 hours
>90% National Benchmark

90.4% patients prescribed ADHD medication had at least 2 follow up visits in last 12 months
>90% National Benchmark

KEY PROGRAMS

Neuropsychology

Neuropsychology introduced an outpatient intake service facilitated by master's level clinicians to promote access to 'right-sized care' for patients referred for comprehensive evaluation, which typically takes more than eight hours to complete.

80% attendance rate for intakes in the first six months, and of those who completed the intake, 61% were recommended for services with a neuropsychologist
16% increase in the attendance rate for neuropsychological evaluation services, prioritizing provider time for top-of-license activities

Suicide Prevention and Resilience in Children (SPARC)

SPARC was developed to help adolescents who have had a recent suicidal event – such as worsening suicidal thoughts or a suicide attempt – and need intensive care and support. SPARC uses a combination of teen skills group therapy, multifamily therapy, individual therapy and family therapy.

Teen Recovery

This program is the only one of its kind in North Texas and offers hope for teens and families navigating the complexities of substance use and mental health issues. We serve teens aged 13-17, helping them take on their challenges and improve family relationships in the process. Our specialized team uses the latest evidence-based therapies and approaches to help teens live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Health Psychology

Our program integrates psychological and medical care and supports treatment planning with the needs of the whole child in mind, promoting access to behavioral health services for patients with medical concerns and directly contributing to improved medical outcomes. Dedicated psychologists and therapists are embedded in 19 pediatric medical subspecialty programs, providing care for established patients alongside physicians and other members of the medical team.

Play Therapy

Children’s Health is the only hospital in the world with an Approved Provider designation by the Association for Play Therapy to provide education to registered play therapists (RPTs) in the community or those seeking their RPT credential.

Center for Autism Care

Identifies underlying genetic or other etiology for developmental disorders
Conducts psychological testing for suspected autism spectrum disorder
Provides applied behavior analysis (ABA) for an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis