Our team at Dr Yudell & Associates offers psychiatry services focused on mental health diagnosis, treatment plans, and medication management to support overall well-being. With expertise in mood disorders, anxiety, and behavioral therapy, we provide compassionate care tailored to individual patient needs.
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Psychiatry Services for Children and Adolescents at Dr. Yudell & Associates

Kids and teens go through tough stuff sometimes. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, or acting out—these things show up at home or school. Well, that’s where Dr. Yudell & Associates come in. Our team helps families who need a little extra support with child and adolescent psychiatry.

Parents try to help, but sometimes it’s hard to know what works best. If you feel stuck, talking to someone can help. Our staff listens to each kid’s story, then helps them find ways to feel better.

Dr. Yudell leads our group. He’s a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist who’s seen lots of cases like thi s. You can see our whole team on the Meet the Team page.

Want to talk about what your child needs? Contact us for a first meeting. Let’s see how things can get easier at home and at school.

Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluations and Treatment

When kids or teens face mental health stuff, our office does a full check-up first. We don’t rush. You get space to share what you’ve seen at home or heard from teachers.

Here’s what we do:

• Clinical interviews—just talking with you and your kid
• Psychological testing (sometimes we use this for extra info)
• Medication evaluations if needed

After that, we make a plan that fits your child—not someone else’s.

Our team talks with:

• Parents (yep, we want your thoughts)
• Therapists
• School staff
• Other doctors if needed

We believe working together helps kids in real life—not just on paper.

Here are some services:

• Medication management for children and teens 
• Sending referrals if someone needs family therapy or counseling 
• Regular check-ins and changing plans as your kid grows

We treat stuff like:

• ADHD
• Anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)
• PTSD
• Other struggles kids hit while growing up

Dr. Yudell & Associates pick treatments based on what works—not guesses or trends. We want kids to feel safe when they walk in here.

Conditions We Treat

At Dr. Yudell & Associates, we help kids and teens with all sorts of mental health stuff. We look at what each kid needs, then make a plan that makes sense for them and their family. Check out the main things we treat below, plus how we help.

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)

ADHD is when someone has trouble paying attention, gets really fidgety, or acts before thinking. Kids with ADHD might find it hard to stay on task, finish homework, or follow rules at school or home.

• Can’t sit still
• Gets distracted super quick
• Blurts out answers or interrupts others
• Messy backpacks or lost homework all the time

Our team gives kids thorough ADHD checks. We use interviews and some standard tests. After that, we work with families to pick what helps—maybe medicine, maybe therapy, sometimes both. The idea is to help your kid feel better in class, at home, and with friends.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety can mean a kid worries a lot about things that don’t bother other people much. Some get scared about being away from home. Others fear talking to new people or even leaving the house for school.

• Worries that won’t go away
• Complains of stomach pain or headaches
• Avoids class or hangs back at parties
• Trouble falling asleep because of worrying

Our team uses stuff like CBT (that’s a kind of talk therapy) and sometimes medication if it’s needed. Parents get tools too so they can help their kids handle stress.

Depression

Depression in kids doesn’t always look like sadness. Sometimes it’s anger or just not caring about things they used to love—like soccer or video games. You might see changes in how they eat or sleep.

• Feeling down all the time
• Stays in room alone instead of seeing friends
• Always tired or no energy for anything
• Eats too much or too little; sleeps lots or not enough

We listen to what your kid says and work as a team with families. Kids may talk with one of us in therapy, and sometimes medicine helps too if needed.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

ODD is when a kid often argues with adults, loses their temper easily, or seems like they want to upset others on purpose. This can make school and home pretty rough.

• Big tantrums over small stuff
• Argues over every rule
• Tries to bug brothers, sisters, teachers
• Always says “it’s not my fault!”

We use simple plans at home and school that help everyone communicate better. Families work with us together so things start feeling smoother day by day.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD happens after something scary—or dangerous—happens to a kid. It might be an accident or something else bad that sticks in their head even after it’s over.

• Nightmares about the scary event
• Won’t go near places where bad stuff happened
• Jumpy all the time
• Seems angry without reason

We meet kids where they are and don’t rush them. Our team uses therapies meant for trauma in children so kids feel safe again bit by bit.

Our Approach to Care

At Dr. Yudell & Associates, we do more than check symptoms—we look at everything going on in a child’s world so our plans fit real life.

Holistic and Patient-Centered Care

Mental health isn’t just about not feeling bad; it’s also about feeling strong. We support each child’s good points while helping fix problems at home, at school—even hanging out with friends matters.

Here’s what we focus on:

• Seeing strengths as well as struggles
• Helping in every area of life: school, home, friends

Family-Centered and Collaborative Care

Families matter a lot when it comes to helping kids get better! We work side by side with parents, teachers—even outside doctors if needed—to keep everyone on the same page.

What this means:

• Parents join us for planning sessions
• Teachers know what works best for your child
• Therapists talk together for steady progress

Commitment to Evidence-Based Practices

We use proven methods backed up by research from groups like the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Our team keeps up with new info so treatment stays effective.

You get:

• Latest science-based therapies
• No guesswork—just what works best

Compassionate Therapeutic Alliance

We want your child to trust us from day one. Kids deserve respect from adults who listen—not just talk at them! Everyone should feel comfy sharing stuff here.

That looks like:

• Friendly staff who really care
• Safe rooms where you can be yourself
• Real conversations—no big words unless you want them!

Have questions? Want an appointment? Call us: (954) 288‑9393 or email info@DrYudell.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

At Dr. Yudell & Associates, parents ask a lot about child and adolescent psychiatry. Here are some answers to questions folks bring up most.

When should I seek psychiatric help for my child?

Sometimes, kids feel upset all the time, or they get into trouble at school. Your child might have mood swings, stay worried, or act way more active than usual. Maybe they’re having a tough time with friends or family too. If stuff like this keeps happening and gets in the way of normal life, it’s a good idea to ask for help. Kids do better when they get help early. Our doctors take time to check what’s going on and make a plan for your kid.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can give medicine for mental health problems. Psychiatrists diagnose issues and sometimes do therapy too. A psychologist has a PhD or PsyD degree but can’t give medicine—psychologists focus on testing and talking therapies instead. They often work together with psychiatrists to help kids in different ways.

What are the potential side effects of psychiatric medication?

Psychiatric medicines can make people feel different things. Sometimes kids lose their appetite, have trouble sleeping, or feel sick in their stomachs. We keep an eye on any side effects your child feels and adjust meds if we need to. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says that when experts watch carefully, the good usually beats out the bad.

How long will my child need to be in treatment?

Treatment time isn’t the same for everyone. Some kids only need help for a bit while others need more support over months or even years. We look at how your kid feels over time and talk about it together at each step so we can change plans if we need.

How can I support my child during psychiatric treatment?

Being there matters most. Listen when your child wants to talk, go to appointments together if you can, and stay in touch with the team helping them out. Find out more about your kid’s diagnosis by asking questions or reading what you can (even if some words are hard!). Giving medicine when it’s needed and showing up for therapy makes care work better.

What is the role of therapy in conjunction with medication?

Therapy helps kids figure out new ways to deal with feelings or behavior—like learning how not to panic or how to work through fights at home. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) gives useful tools that last a long time. Family therapy helps everyone talk things through better as a group. Medication sometimes makes it easier for kids to join in with therapy because their symptoms get less strong first.

How do you handle confidentiality with teenagers?

We treat teens’ privacy seriously but also know parents care about their safety too! We explain right from the start how private talks work here—what stays secret and what gets shared if there’s danger or legal stuff involved. We want teens and parents talking openly with each other whenever possible.

Do you accept my insurance?

Dr. Yudell & Associates works with lots of insurance companies. Call our office at (954) 288-9393 or email info@DrYudell.com to check your plan covers us or see other ways to pay bills here.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel or move an appointment, please call us at least 24 hours ahead so we don’t charge you for missed visits! You can ask our staff or look at our Fees & Office Hours page for all details.

Understanding Psychiatric Medications for Children and Adolescents

Deciding about medication for kids isn’t easy—it takes careful checks by people who know what they’re doing.

Common Types of Psychiatric Medications

• Antidepressants: Used when kids feel sad a lot (depression), worry too much (anxiety), or act out.
• Stimulants: Help children who have ADHD focus better and control impulses.
• Anti-anxiety medications: Given short-term when anxiety gets very strong.
• Every type works best for certain problems, comes with risks, but helps many children live fuller lives.
• We follow guides from places like NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) and AACAP when making decisions.

Importance of Monitoring and Managing Side Effects

Medicines can make people feel off sometimes—like changes in appetite, mood, or sleep habits. We check back regularly with families during treatment. Doctors might adjust medicine doses based on what changes. Families learn what symptoms mean they should call us fast. We want you feeling safe bringing up any side effect, even small ones!

Shared Decision-Making Process

Parents help decide what treatments fit best—they know their own child well! Older children join these talks when ready. Doctors explain options using clear words; nothing hidden here. Everyone works together on goals for care. Trust grows when everyone knows what might happen next. Open choices mean families feel stronger about each step taken together.

Disclaimer: This information is meant as general education only—not medical advice for specific cases! Always check with your own doctor before making changes.

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Real Stories, Real Results: How Psychiatry Can Help

At Dr. Yudell & Associates, every child’s path to better mental health is different. We know hope, healing, and real progress can happen. Here, you’ll read some real patient success stories. They’re all anonymous, of course. These cases show how caring, evidence-based psychiatry changes lives.

Our work brings families into the mix. We see big changes in quality of life when everyone gets involved.

Case Study 1: Overcoming Severe Anxiety

Initial Challenges:

• A 12-year-old girl felt anxious all the time.
• She had trouble sleeping and lots of headaches.
• She struggled to focus in class.
• Her parents saw her pulling away from friends and activities.
• Confidence fell; grades slipped.

Evaluation & Treatment:

Dr. Yudell met with the family and did a full psychiatric checkup. He talked to her school counselor, too. Then he set up a treatment plan just for her. It used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication that was watched closely.

The family joined in regular sessions as well.

They learned more about anxiety and got tools to help their daughter at home.

Results:

• Her anxiety symptoms dropped.
• She slept better and focused more at school.
• Teachers saw her talking up in class again.
• Her parents noticed she joined friends for activities outside school.

This is one way a team effort between doctor, family, and school can turn daily life around for a child.

Case Study 2: Thriving Beyond ADHD and Behavioral Struggles

Initial Challenges:

• A 9-year-old boy moved nonstop and acted on impulse.
• He had trouble following directions.
• Outbursts happened both at home and at school.

Evaluation & Treatment:

Dr. Yudell listened to his parents, teachers, and past doctors.

He created a care plan just for him:

• Medication management
• Behavioral support
• Parent coaching sessions

Results:

• His focus improved over time.
• Self-control got better in class.
• Grades climbed up, not down.
• Friendships grew stronger.
• Parents liked that Dr. Yudell’s team kept them in the loop.

The boy now likes going to school and feels proud of what he does there.

Case Study 3: Healing from Depression

Initial Challenges:

A 16-year-old teen started feeling sad most days. Hobbies stopped being fun. Sleeping changed; sometimes too much or not enough. Friends faded away fast.

Grades tanked, so the family reached out for help:

• Low mood
• Loss of interests
• Social isolation
• Academic problems

Evaluation & Treatment:

Dr. Yudell completed an in-depth diagnostic checkup for the teen.

He talked with the school’s mental health staff too.

Treatment included:

• Individual therapy with a licensed therapist
• Family counseling
• Antidepressant medication (when needed)

Results:

After a few months of sticking with care:

• The teen got motivation back.
• Old friendships came back around.
• Schoolwork improved again.

The whole family learned better ways to talk with each other. They say there’s more strength and hope at home now than before.

“Dr. Yudell took the time to truly understand our child’s needs. The collaborative approach made all the difference, and now our son feels confident and happy again.”
— Parent of a patient, via Healthgrades link to Healthgrades

Want more real feedback? Ask if we can share other stories from families (with their okay). People trust what others say about their care here.

Meet Dr. Yudell: Experience You Can Trust

Dr. Joshua Yudell, MD, MPH helps kids and teens feel better using psychiatry based on solid research—he’s been doing this for over 15 years now. He’s board-certified in general psychiatry as well as child/adolescent psychiatry (yes, two specialties).

He belongs to these groups:

• American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP)
• American Medical Association (AMA)
• Florida Psychiatric Society

Awards on his shelf include:

• South Florida Top Doctor Award (2022–2023)
• Voted “Best Psychiatrist” by [Local City Magazine], 2021

He works hard every day with his team using up-to-date practices—and always keeps things ethical and kind.

Read more about Dr. Yudell’s qualifications and philosophy on our About Us page.

Patient Testimonials & Reviews

What patients say matters here—families share real changes they’ve seen in daily life after working with us.

“The improvement in my daughter’s quality of life is remarkable. Dr. Yudell’s guidance and genuine care truly set him apart.”
— Family member, January 2024

See more honest opinions from families online:

• Healthgrades
• Zocdoc
• RateMDs

Alt-text prompt: Photos here should show different kinds of happy families or kids just doing regular stuff—always use royalty-free photos that are allowed for this use

Your family can take steps toward better mental health starting now. Contact us if you want to set up a private visit or learn how Dr. Yudell & Associates could help you or your child feel better about life again.

Navigating the Challenges of Teenage Mental Health

Adolescence moves fast. Changes come quick, and teens feel them. Stress from friends, school, or even just growing up can throw them off balance. Dr. Yudell & Associates focuses on what matters to teens and families most.

Social Media’s Role in Teen Mental Health

Teens scroll and tap all day. Phones connect them but can mess with sleep, mood, or self-worth. The National Institute of Mental Health says too much screen time leads to anxiety and low self-esteem. Families help by setting some phone rules and talking about what happens online.

• Set up a family media plan.
• Check in with teens about apps and friends online.
• Family Media Plan – American Academy of Pediatrics

Handling Academic Pressure

School pushes hard. Teens get stressed over grades, sports, college stuff, or clubs. CDC research shows that better time management, breathing exercises, or just talking about stress can help kids do better.

• Break big tasks into smaller steps.
• Use a planner or calendar.
• Ask for help from teachers or parents.
• APA – Teens & Stress

Making Friends and Finding Yourself

Friend drama hurts. Dating makes things messy sometimes too. Figuring out who you are is hard work during these years. Home should feel safe for teens—school too. Support from both builds confidence and helps kids through rough patches.

• Listen without judging.
• Encourage open talks about feelings.
• Support all identities at home and school.

Spotting Substance Abuse in Teens

Teens may try substances for lots of reasons—curiosity, peer pressure, escape. If you see sudden mood swings, lower grades, or if a kid keeps to themselves more than before, ask questions early on. SAMHSA gives advice for families worried about substance use.

• Watch for changes in attitude or grades.
• Talk often without accusing.
• Know where to get outside help.
• SAMHSA – Substance Use Prevention for Teens

Supporting LGBTQ+ Teens

LGBTQ+ youth face more bullying and sadness than other kids their age. The Trevor Project and AACAP show that support at home makes a big difference. Accepting parents keep their kids safer and happier.

• Learn together as a family about LGBTQ+ issues.
• Build support at home—love first, always.
• Connect with groups that accept everyone.
• The Trevor Project – LGBTQ+ Youth Resources

Telepsychiatry for Children and Adolescents: Is it Right for Your Family?

Telepsychiatry brings mental health care straight to your house using video calls instead of waiting rooms.

Why Choose Telepsychiatry?

Families want options when life gets busy or travel is tough. Virtual visits cut out driving across town and missing school or work.

• See child psychiatrists without long trips.
• Book sessions that fit your schedule easier.
• Get help faster if local doctors are booked up.
• Involve family members easier since everyone’s at home.

The American Psychiatric Association says telepsychiatry works as well as in-person sessions for most children.

What Happens During a Virtual Visit?

Kids meet the doctor by secure video link (it’s HIPAA-safe). The doctor learns about your child’s health history first then plans treatment with you.

• Sessions happen through private video calls.
• Kids answer questions meant for their age group.
• Families help shape the plan from the start.

Doctors walk families through how to use the tech ahead of time so there aren’t surprises later on.

Keeping Telepsychiatry Private

Privacy stays top priority every time we use tech in care at our office. We choose encrypted programs that follow laws set by groups like AACAP.

• Find a quiet space before your session starts.
• Use headphones if possible during calls.

Insurance Coverage Questions

Not every insurance covers virtual visits the same way yet—but many do now! Medicaid pays for many telehealth services too; call your provider to check the details or ask us what to expect before booking.
National Alliance on Mental Illness – Telehealth Coverage FAQs

Resources for Parents and Families

Sometimes you just need solid info when helping a teen deal with mental health stuff—or someone who’ll listen when things get rough. These books and sites have real answers.

Books Worth Reading

• “The Whole-Brain Child” by Drs. Siegel & Bryson
• “Helping Your Anxious Teen” by Sheila Achar Josephs
• NIMH – Child & Adolescent Mental Health

Websites That Help Families

Check these out when you need tips fast or want advice that isn’t full of medical jargon:

• AACAP – American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
• Child Mind Institute – Family Resources
• Youth.gov – Adolescent Mental Health

Local Support Groups Near You

Groups meet up in Broward County all the time—families talk things through together:

• NAMI Broward County: Family education & support
• Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention: School programs too
  (Ask our office when meetings are happening near you.)

Hotlines When It Gets Serious

Life feels heavy sometimes; don’t wait if your teen needs real help now:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call/text 988 any hour
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 anytime
• 211 Broward: Quick info/referrals during emergencies

The Intersection of Physical and Mental Health in Children

A kid’s mind links tight with their body—even little things matter here!

Gut-Brain Connection

Scientists keep finding new links between stomach problems and feeling low or anxious—the “gut-brain axis” runs both ways (Harvard Medical School covers this topic well).

• Gut bacteria send signals straight to the brain.
• Upset stomachs sometimes come before sad moods—not after!

How Nutrition Affects Mood

Good food feeds strong brains (and happier feelings). Fruits, veggies, protein—these are linked with less anxiety according to CDC studies; skipping meals usually does harm instead!

• Aim for colorful plates at meals
• Omega‑3 fats may help brains grow stronger

Why Sleep Matters So Much

Tired brains act cranky fast! Without enough hours asleep—kids snap at family, lose focus at school, even get more moody overall (American Academy of Sleep Medicine has numbers).

• School-age: 9–12 hours per night
• Teens: 8–10 hours per night
• Same routine each night helps reset minds

Move Your Body for Your Mind Too

Exercise lifts moods—just walking counts! CDC says one hour moving daily beats sitting around every time; it lowers anxiety too.
CDC – Physical Activity Facts

If you have questions about any topic here—or want to book a session with our team—call Dr. Yudell & Associates anytime you’re ready! We’ll meet you where you are (in person or online) so your family gets real support every step along the way.

What is a psychiatric diagnosis and why does it matter for treatment?

A psychiatric diagnosis helps doctors find the root cause of mental health symptoms. This guides the treatment plan, medication choices, and therapy.



How does child psychiatry differ from adult psychiatry at Dr Yudell & Associates?

Child psychiatry focuses on brain development, behavior changes, and family dynamics. Pediatric mental health needs unique strategies and specialized training.



Can teenage psychiatry help with substance use disorders or addiction?

Yes. We offer addiction psychiatry support for teens facing substance use disorder. Our team treats both mental illness and risky behaviors together.



What happens during a psychological assessment?

A psychological assessment involves interviews, testing, and review of school or medical history. Results guide the treatment plan for mental health care.



Are there options for patients with treatment-resistant depression?

Yes. For treatment-resistant depression, our psychiatrists may consider advanced psychopharmacology or therapy referrals to specialized clinical programs.



How do you use cognitive behavioral therapy in your clinical programs?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps children and teens learn coping skills for anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. CBT is evidence-based.



Does Dr Yudell & Associates offer telehealth services for adolescent psychiatry?

Telehealth services allow virtual visits for adolescents needing mental health support or follow-ups. Care coordination stays seamless using secure technology.



What support is available for families during psychiatric treatment?

Family involvement is crucial in patient care. We include families in planning sessions, offer patient resources, and provide education on supporting loved ones.



Are forensic or geriatric psychiatry services offered at your practice?

We focus on child, adolescent, and young adult populations. We refer out cases needing forensic psychiatry or geriatric psychiatry to trusted providers nearby.



Do you participate in clinical trials or research studies related to mental health disorders?

Our practice stays updated with current neuroscience, genetics research, and clinical guidelines but does not currently conduct original investigation or trials onsite.

Expanding Excellence: Advanced Psychiatry Capabilities

• Multidisciplinary team ensures high-quality care coordination.
• Providers use rigorous diagnostic evaluation methods.
• Medical providers stay informed on new clinical review data.
• Psychopharmacology management includes symptom monitoring.
• Therapy referrals connect patients with best-fit psychological therapy.
• Data-driven outcome measurement tracks patient progress.
• Education covers mindfulness-based stress reduction methods.
• Early intervention reduces long-term effects of psychiatric conditions.
• Continuing medical education keeps staff up-to-date with latest treatments.
• Fellowship programs inform advanced practice models in mental health care.
• Residency training emphasizes patient advocacy and collaborative approaches.
• Neuroimaging and genetics research guide complex cases if needed.
• Multidisciplinary approach includes opinion from peer review experts.
• Telepsychiatry extends access to remote communities seeking quality care.
• Patient-centered care improves emotional well-being and overall patient outcomes.
• Clinical evaluation follows strict medical provider guidelines for efficiency.
• All providers commit to ethical standards set by the FDA and major organizations.