Telehealth Visits for Children: Tips for success
At Lucid Psychiatry, we offer telehealth psychiatric care for children and teens across Nevada and California. While virtual visits make mental health care more accessible and convenient, many parents wonder how to set their child up for success during an online appointment.
Here are some simple, practical tips to make the most of your child’s telepsychiatry session—whether it's their very first or part of ongoing care.
1. Choose the Right Space
Find a quiet, private, and well-lit room where your child can speak freely. Avoid areas with distractions like the TV or heavy foot traffic.
📍Pro Tip: If possible, have your child seated at a desk or table, rather than lying in bed or on the floor, to help them stay grounded and focused.
2. Check Your Tech Ahead of Time
Before the appointment, test your device’s camera, microphone, and internet connection. Make sure any software or telehealth platform links are working.
📱 If your child is using a tablet or phone, prop it up on a stable surface so they don’t have to hold it the entire time.
3. Prepare Your Child—But Keep It Light
Let them know who they’ll be meeting and why:
“Today, you’re going to meet Dr. Parikh. She helps kids who feel worried, sad, or have trouble focusing. She’s really easy to talk to.”
Keep the tone relaxed. You don’t need to prep them with answers—just encourage them to be themselves.
4. Be Available (But Not Overbearing)
For younger kids, it can be helpful for a parent to be nearby during part or all of the visit. Older children or teens often prefer some independence—and that’s okay.
I typically begin each session by briefly checking in with parents, and then give the child space to speak one-on-one if appropriate.
5. Bring Notes or Questions
You’re welcome to jot down any concerns ahead of time:
Changes in behavior or sleep
Academic struggles
Social or emotional changes
Questions about medication or treatment
We’ll always make time to discuss your observations and collaborate on the best next steps.
6. Set Expectations After the Visit
After the session, your child may want to talk about it—or they may not. Either response is normal. Let them know you’re proud of them for showing up and remind them that this is just one way to take care of their mental health.
Telepsychiatry That Feels Personal
Virtual visits don’t have to feel distant. At Lucid Psychiatry, we work hard to build strong therapeutic relationships with kids and families, whether we’re connecting in person or through a screen.
If you’re a parent in Nevada or California and curious about whether telehealth psychiatry is right for your child, I’d love to connect.
👉 Book a free 15 minute consultation to learn more.
