Children and teens
When to See a Child Psychologist or Child Psychiatrist in Kathmandu
Parents often wait, hoping a child will "grow out of it". Sometimes they do. But when behaviour, mood, attention or development causes a child real difficulty at home or school, an assessment can bring answers and support sooner. This guide helps you decide.
Key takeaways
- Seek help when a problem lasts, worsens or affects school, friendships or family life.
- A psychologist assesses and provides therapy. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can also diagnose, prescribe medicine and coordinate care.
- Parents or guardians attend the first visit, and children are seen gently, often with play or conversation.
- Talk of self-harm or suicide always needs urgent attention.
Signs by age
Young children: delayed speech, little response to their name or eye contact, very intense tantrums, extreme clinginess or fears, sleep problems, or difficulty playing with others.
School-age children: trouble paying attention or sitting still, restlessness, refusing school, frequent stomach aches or headaches with no medical cause, persistent worry, aggression, or a sharp fall in school performance.
Teenagers: low mood or irritability, withdrawing from friends, changes in sleep or appetite, exam stress, self-harm, alcohol, tobacco or drug use, and talk of not wanting to live.
Child psychologist or child psychiatrist?
A psychologist assesses thinking, learning and behaviour and provides therapy, and often works with schools. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose conditions such as ADHD, autism, anxiety and depression, decide whether medicine could help, and coordinate care. They often work together. Our doctors assess children and teenagers and can refer to a clinical psychologist where that is a better fit. Read who to see in Nepal.
What a first visit looks like
A parent or guardian joins the first visit. The doctor asks about pregnancy and development, health, family, school and behaviour, sees the child (young children through play, older ones through conversation), and may ask for school reports. Assessments for ADHD and autism concerns use interviews, observation and questionnaires. You leave with a clear explanation and a plan.
What help can include
- Explaining the child's difficulty in a way that reduces blame and worry.
- Parenting guidance and behaviour strategies.
- Therapy such as play-based work or CBT for older children.
- Working with the school on support.
- Medicine only when it is likely to help and is discussed with you.
How parents can help
Keep routines for sleep and meals, praise effort, stay calm during outbursts, limit screen time and talk with your child without lecturing. Look after yourself too, because parenting a child with difficulties is tiring.
When to act quickly
If a child or teenager talks about wanting to die, harms themselves, or seems unsafe, stay with them and get help at once: Nepal Police 100, ambulance 102, helpline 1166, or the nearest emergency department.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can ADHD be assessed?
ADHD is usually assessed from school age, when attention and behaviour can be compared with classmates. Younger children with concerns can still be seen so that parents get guidance.
Do teenagers need a parent at the first visit?
Adolescents under 18 come with a parent or guardian for the first visit. Teenagers are then given time to talk, and confidentiality is explained.
Will my child need medicine?
Not always. Many children improve with understanding, parenting strategies, therapy and school support. Medicine is considered only when it is likely to help and after discussion with you.
This guide is general information and does not replace advice from a doctor. If you are worried about your health or someone's safety, seek medical help.
In an emergency: Nepal Police 100 · Ambulance 102 · Suicide prevention helpline 1166. Outside Nepal, call your local emergency number.