Conditions · Children & adolescents
Children and adolescents often communicate distress through behavior, sleep, school, the body or family relationships before they can put it into words.
Do not use either website for emergencies. If a young person is in immediate danger, call 112 now or go to the nearest emergency department.
In Belgium, call Zelfmoordlijn 1813 in Dutch or the Centre de Prévention du Suicide on 0800 32 123 in French. Both are free, anonymous and available 24/7.
You can call simply because things feel bad and you want someone to talk to.
What families may notice
School has become a daily struggle — academically, socially or simply getting through the door.
Sleep, appetite, energy or physical complaints have changed without a clear explanation.
Irritability, outbursts, withdrawal or fear feels different from the child's usual self.
Attention, learning, friendships or family routines are becoming harder to sustain.
Parents feel stuck between setting limits and recognizing that something deeper may be happening.
Behavior is information, not the whole child. Developmental stage, temperament, health, sensory needs, relationships and context all matter.
How I approach assessment and treatment
First
I create an age-appropriate space where the child or adolescent can feel safe enough to be known. The therapeutic relationship begins before every concern has found words.
Then
I consider development, health, sleep, learning, emotions, attention, trauma, family life and strengths. Parent input is essential; school or other clinicians may contribute with consent and at the right distance.
From there
Children learn regulation through relationships. The plan may include work with the young person, parent guidance, family or school collaboration, daily-rhythm support, psychotherapy — and medication when clinically appropriate.
A consultation may help when emotional, behavioral, developmental or school concerns persist, affect several parts of life, place strain on the family, or need a medical and psychiatric perspective alongside existing support.
Appointment information for familiesNext
For a new child or adolescent patient, a parent must obtain a referral letter from the family physician. The initial evaluation lasts 90 minutes and costs €220.
