Developmental and Behavioural Paediatrics

Background Image

Developmental and Behavioural refers to the social, emotional, and psychological well-being young people. Since about half of adult mental healthdisorders begin before age 14, early detection and treatment are crucial.

Children and adolescents may be affected by various mental healthconditions, including:

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Manifested through challenges with maintaining attention, controlling impulses, and managing hyperactivity. This may present as learning difficulties at school or gradual decline in grades over time, esp starting high school. It is a myth that kids with ADHD must struggle with learning, often it can be a cause for gifted kids not functioning to potential.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neuro developmental condition affecting communication, social interaction, and perception. The"spectrum" highlights variability in symptoms and support needs. Autism is not an illness or disease but reflects neurodivergent development.With proper support, autistic individuals can lead independent, fulfilling lives.

Anxiety Disorders

These are defined by persistent and excessive fears or worries that interfere with daily functioning. Anxiety in children can present as behavioural issues or learning difficulties.

Depression and Mood Disorders

Characterized by ongoing feelings of sadness, irritability, or adiminished interest in usual activities lasting two weeks or longer.

Behavioural Disorders

Such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD),which present as disruptive or non-compliant behaviours.

Sleep Issues

Sleep difficulties include difficulties with falling asleep or staying asleep or both. Sleep is an important aspect of mental and physical well being and remains the mainstay of treatment for most difficulties

Warning Signs

Mood swings can be common and normal, but ongoing or intense changes may signal a problem. Watch for:

Lasting sadness, worry, or irritability (2+ weeks)·

Sleep or appetite changes·

Loss of interest in activities·

Social withdrawal or troublemaking friends·

Unexplained headaches or stomachaches

Self-harm or talk of suicide (seek immediate help)

How does it work?

At “All Psychiatry” our team of Australian- certified mental health clinicians provides expert care tailored to your needs.
We have made it simple and efficient - just follow the steps below to get started

1

GP Referral

To get started, please obtain a referral from your GP addressed to “All Psychiatry” and include as much information as possible.
It helps to include information about your symptoms, history and any previous treatment.

2

Send or Upload GP referral

You can upload your referral securely on our website, or ask your GP to fax it to 03 8080 6484 or email it to admin@allpsychiatry.com.au

3

We will contact you to book an appointment

Once our friendly admin team receives your referral, it will be promptly reviewed to match you with the specialist best suited to your needs. Someone from our admin team will contact you to arrange your appointment

how it works

Get started as easy as 1, 2, 3

Learn how to get started, within minutes, seamlessly through our website.

1

Submit a Referral

Contact your GP, and collect a refferal,

2

Upload Referral

Upload your referral online, or ask your GP to send us a fax.

3

We Wil Contact You

Once our friendly admin staff has received your referral, it will be quickly screened and admin staff will call you back to book an appointment.

How does it work?

At “All Psychiatry” our team of Australian- certified mental health clinicians provides expert care tailored to your needs.
We have made it simple and efficient - just follow the steps below to get started

1

GP Referral

To get started, please obtain a referral from your GP addressed to “All Psychiatry” and include as much information as possible.
It helps to include information about your symptoms, history and any previous treatment.

2

Send or Upload GP referral

You can upload your referral securely on our website, or ask your GP to fax it to 03 8080 6484 or email it to admin@allpsychiatry.com.au

3

We will contact you to book an appointment

Once our friendly admin team receives your referral, it will be promptly reviewed to match you with the specialist best suited to your needs. Someone from our admin team will contact you to arrange your appointment

Meet Our Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What can we expect from our intial Telehealth appointment with Dr. Reetika Dhir?

The initial appointment with Dr. Dhir will comprise of getting history of current difficulties, a development history from parent/carer and review of any previous assessments done by psychologists or school.

Subsequent to the first appointment, Dr. Dhir will liaise with the school/university to get more information which will form a part of her comprehensive assessment.  There will be ongoing liaison with your GP to organise any further investigations needed.

Medications may be commenced at any stage depending on history and assessment.

Does a parent/carer need to attend the appointment?

Yes, a parent/carer needs to be present for the initial appointment to be able to provide a development or join for 15 mins at the end. It is ideal for them to attend a part or full appointment subsequently too for feedback regarding medications.

Does my child need to be present at all appointments?

Yes the patient (child/teenager) needs to be present at all appointments for the family to be able to claim Medicare rebates. Teenagers can join in using the link from school in case missing school is a concern.

Where to Get Help (Australia)

If you're worried about a child'smental health, start by consulting a local doctor (GP) or school counsellor.

For immediate help in Australia:·      

• Kids Helpline: Free 24/7counselling for ages 5–25. Call 1800 55 1800.
• Headspace: Mental health supportfor ages 12–25. Call 1800 650 890.
• Beyond Blue: Depression andanxiety resources, plus free counselling. Call 1300 22 4636.
• Lifeline: 24-hour crisis andsuicide prevention. Call 13 11 14.
• CAMHS: Specialist assessment andcare for moderate to severe issues (up to age 18/25, varies by region).

In emergencies or immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).