Why It’s Important to Choose a Pediatric Specialist for Your Child’s Mental Health Care
Written by: Laura LaMonica, PMHNP at Leva Psychiatry
When it comes to your child’s mental health, finding the right provider can feel overwhelming. Many families start by searching broadly for a psychiatrist, psychologist, or nurse practitioner. While any licensed mental health professional may provide general support, there is a distinct advantage to choosing a provider who specializes in pediatrics. Children and adolescents are not just “small adults.” They have unique developmental, emotional, and social needs that require expertise.
Understanding Developmental Differences
The pediatric years are marked by rapid growth in the brain, body, and behavior. A provider who specializes in pediatrics understands how milestones, school transitions, and puberty influence emotional well-being. For example, a behavior that might seem concerning in a teenager could be completely normal in a six-year-old. Conversely, a subtle sign of withdrawal in a young child could be an early indicator of depression or anxiety. Pediatric specialists are trained to recognize these nuances, preventing both unnecessary alarm and missed diagnoses.
Expertise in Diagnosing Pediatric Mental Health Conditions
ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and learning differences often present differently in children than in adults. A provider without pediatric training may overlook symptoms, misinterpret behaviors, or apply adult treatment models that don’t fit. Specialists in child psychiatry and psychology use developmentally appropriate assessments and evidence-based guidelines specifically designed for younger patients. This leads to more accurate diagnoses and more effective care.
Medication Management with Safety in Mind
Prescribing medication for children requires an extra layer of caution. Their brains and bodies metabolize drugs differently than adults, and side effects can appear in unique ways. Pediatric providers stay up to date on FDA approvals, pediatric dosing guidelines, and the latest research on safety. They also know when non-medication interventions—like therapy, parent coaching, or school support—should come first. Choosing a provider with pediatric expertise ensures that treatment decisions balance effectiveness with long-term developmental safety.
Collaboration with Families and Schools
Children’s mental health care often involves more than just the child. Parents, caregivers, and teachers all play vital roles in supporting progress. Pediatric providers understand this and make collaboration part of the care plan. They help parents navigate behavior strategies at home, work with schools to set up academic accommodations, and guide families through what can feel like an overwhelming system. This team-based approach ensures consistency, which is key for a child’s success.
Building Comfort and Trust
Children may be hesitant or even fearful when visiting a mental health provider. Pediatric specialists are skilled at engaging young patients in ways that feel safe and supportive. They use age-appropriate language, creative tools, and play-based approaches to build trust. This not only makes appointments more comfortable but also increases the child’s willingness to participate actively in treatment.
The Bottom Line
Seeking help for your child’s mental health is a courageous and important step. By choosing a provider who specializes in pediatrics, you are ensuring that your child receives care tailored to their developmental stage, medical needs, and emotional world. The right provider doesn’t just treat symptoms—they nurture growth, resilience, and long-term well-being.
Investing in specialized pediatric mental health care today can help your child build a stronger foundation for tomorrow.
Does Sugar Make ADHD Worse? Here’s What the Research Really Says
Written by: Laura LaMonica
If you’re a parent of a child with ADHD—or navigating the condition yourself—you’ve probably heard the classic warning: “Cut out sugar!” It’s advice that’s been repeated for decades, showing up everywhere from parenting forums to school lunch tables. But is it actually backed by science?
Let’s separate the hype from the hard data.
What Does the Research Say?
The short answer? Sugar does not cause ADHD. And the evidence linking sugar to worsening ADHD symptoms is surprisingly weak.
Multiple well-designed studies have explored the connection between sugar intake and hyperactivity, and the consensus is clear: for most individuals, sugar does not significantly increase impulsivity, inattention, or hyperactive behaviors.
One of the most robust reviews, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), analyzed multiple studies and found no consistent effect of sugar on children’s behavior, attention span, or academic performance—even in kids with ADHD.
So Why Do So Many People Think Sugar Makes ADHD Worse?
Because of expectation bias. When parents believe sugar will cause hyperactivity, they’re more likely to interpret normal (or even unrelated) behaviors as hyperactive. It’s a classic case of cause and effect getting tangled by perception.
There’s also the context of sugar. Kids often eat sweets at exciting times—birthdays, holidays, after school—when they’re already amped up. It’s easy to blame the cupcake instead of the environment.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes—sort of. Some individuals with ADHD may have sensitivities to certain food additives, dyes, or high-sugar diets, particularly when combined with poor sleep, lack of structure, or other dietary imbalances.
Also worth noting: excess sugar can affect energy crashes, blood glucose regulation, and mood, which may indirectly worsen focus or self-regulation in children and adults with ADHD.
For example:
A child who skips lunch but has a soda and candy bar might experience a quick energy spike… followed by a crash, irritability, and difficulty focusing.
Adults with ADHD and binge-eating patterns may report worsened executive function and sleep when high-sugar intake is part of a broader dysregulated diet.
So while sugar doesn’t “cause” ADHD or directly worsen symptoms for most, it’s still worth approaching with balance and intention.
Takeaway for Parents and Adults with ADHD
There is no scientific proof that sugar worsens ADHD symptoms in a meaningful way.
Focus on consistent routines, balanced nutrition, good sleep hygiene, and structured supports.
If you notice certain foods (including sugar) seem to impact your or your child’s behavior, it’s worth tracking and discussing with your provider—everyone’s brain and body are a little different.
Need Help Getting Clarity on ADHD?
At our clinic, we specialize in evidence-based ADHD evaluations for children, teens, and adults. Whether you’re questioning a diagnosis, exploring treatment options, or just trying to make sense of symptoms, we offer thorough assessments tailored to your unique needs.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our ADHD services.