Mental Health Program
Translations: Spanish
Trusted experts in pediatric mental health
Here at Children’s Minnesota, we support children and families across the full continuum of mental health care. Our services include outpatient psychology, neurodevelopmental and psychiatry clinics, partial hospitalization programs, bridging care, and inpatient treatment — so families can access the level of care that best fits their child’s needs. We also bring mental health care into specialty clinics and primary care settings, offering support where your child already receives medical care.
Our mental health team partners with families to provide compassionate, evidence‑based care. We are committed to equity, collaboration, and continuous improvement, working closely with community partners and providers across and beyond our health system to support the best possible mental health care for all kids.
What to expect from mental health care
Learn about our what your mental health care journey could look like.
Mental health conditions we treat
Our pediatric mental health care program is staffed by experienced professionals who diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health concerns in children and teens, including anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, attention‑deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive‑compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma‑related concerns. Our team is skilled at understanding kids and their challenges — and helping parents and caregivers understand, too.
Why choose us for mental health care
A whole‑child, family‑centered approach: We put kids first — always. Our mental health team builds strong, trusting relationships with children and families and cares for the whole child, not just their symptoms. Parents and caregivers are active partners in treatment, and we collaborate closely with providers inside and outside our health system to support your child at home, at school and in the community.
Connected care: Our pediatric psychologists work side by side with your child’s medical team to create one seamless care experience. By integrating mental health care into medical settings, it’s easier for kids to get the support they need — without extra appointments or added stress.
Support where your child already receives care: You’ll find our mental health providers embedded in specialty clinics like diabetes, sleep medicine, feeding, neurology, concussion, cancer and blood disorders, cleft and craniofacial care — and across all nine of our primary care clinics.
Proven, evidence‑based treatment: Our team is trained in well‑established therapies, including Parent‑Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Trauma‑Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF‑CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions). We stay current with the latest research and ongoing training to deliver the highest standard of care.
Patient and family resources
There are many resources from Children’s Minnesota or in the community to help you and your child learn more about their condition. We want you to have all the information you and your child need to understand how your child is affected and to participate in treatment.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about our mental health program
What is pediatric mental health?
Pediatric mental health focuses on how children develop emotionally and socially — including how they understand and express feelings, manage behavior, build relationships, and cope with everyday challenges. A child’s mental health is shaped by their family, community, and environment, and it plays an important role in their overall growth and well‑being.
What are common mental health disorders you can help with?
- Adjustment disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Behavior disorders, like Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
- Coping with chronic illness or disability
- Depressive disorders
- Eating disorders
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Trauma related issues
How do I know what kind of care my child needs?
Your child’s primary care provider or referring provider can help guide the next steps. Our intake team can also work with you to determine the most appropriate level of care based on your child’s needs. If you have any questions, please contact us.
Can my child receive mental health services if they are not already a Children’s Minnesota patient?
It depends on the type of service:
- Inpatient and partial hospitalization programs are available to any child in the community who qualifies for that level of care.
- Other services—like outpatient therapy and integrated clinic support—are designed to meet the complex needs of children already receiving care at Children’s Minnesota.
Will my health insurance cover the cost of care?
Children’s Minnesota is in-network with most major insurance plans. However, coverage can vary, so it’s always best to check directly with your health insurance provider to confirm what’s included.
What qualifies as a mental health emergency?
A mental health emergency is when a child is at immediate risk of harming themselves or others, or when their behavior or emotional state becomes unsafe and needs urgent evaluation.
What steps should I take in a mental health emergency?
If your child is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for a mental health evaluation. Learn more about what to expect in our emergency room for a mental health emergency.
If the situation feels urgent but not life‑threatening, a mental health professional can help assess your child and recommend next steps for care.
Patient stories
