We provide a safe space for families to address the impact of mental health conditions.
We specialize in helping children between the ages 2 and 18 years old.
Many children seen at the clinic are struggling with any of the following:
Anger or aggression causing disruption at home and/or school/daycareExcessive worry causing difficulties with daily activities and/or sleep
Sleep troubles in general
Hyperactivity and Inattention
Depressed, flat, or irritable mood
Post traumatic stress related symptoms
Our evaluation process involves delving deep into the child’s story, examining factors such as the prenatal environment, genetic influences, developmental history, and their current perception of the problem. We also conduct evaluations of mental health status and cognitive capacity, viewing the presenting problem through the lens of pediatric mental health conditions and complex trauma. Understanding the physiological changes resulting from exposure to trauma is crucial for effective interventions.
Children and families seen at the clinic will be cared for by Melissa Reffitt, DNP, PMHS. Melissa has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Michigan, and has been caring for children in our community for over 20 years.
Our goal is to develop a trauma-informed, evidence-based intervention plan tailored to the individual needs of both the child and the family. This may include the prescription and management of medication to treat mental health conditions, it may also include referrals to pediatric and trauma-focused therapies like parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), family therapy, parenting support or collaboration with occupational therapists and speech and language therapists.
Communication is key in our approach. We ensure collaboration between caregivers, educational staff, behavioral therapists, and primary care providers to provide comprehensive support. We directly communicate the child’s medication and treatment plan with the referring primary care provider. Short-term follow-up and management, typically spanning 6-12 months, are included in our services. If behaviors escalate despite interventions, we initiate higher levels of care, including referral to Psychiatry or coordination of access to acute psychiatric evaluation. We are not able to provide care for adults or pregnant individuals.