Pediatric Mental Health Resources

Bethany Barney, MSS, LCSW Bethany Barney, MSS, LCSW

How to Talk to Parents When You Suspect Autism

As an educator, you've developed an intuition about the students in your classroom. When something feels significant, it usually is. But knowing how to talk to parents about autism concerns is a different skillset altogether. You might worry about how they’ll receive your observations, or feel uncertain about your role in this process. This guide will help you prepare to have a productive conversation with parents and support your student’s development and learning.

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Kevin Olivo, LCSW Kevin Olivo, LCSW

10 Questions to Ask a Child Therapist

When your child is struggling with their mental health, finding the right therapist feels overwhelming. Credentials alone don't tell you whether a therapist will actually help. A provider with an impressive background can still rush through a 30-minute intake, miss co-occurring conditions, and leave your child in sessions for months without measurable progress.

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Dr. Nicole Garber Dr. Nicole Garber

Child Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist

When your child is struggling emotionally, behaviorally, or academically, figuring out where to turn for help can feel overwhelming. You might hear terms like "child psychologist," "child therapist," and "child psychiatrist" used interchangeably, but these professionals have different training, approaches, and areas of expertise.

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Coleen Vanderbeek Psy.D., LPC, ASDCS, IMH-e Coleen Vanderbeek Psy.D., LPC, ASDCS, IMH-e

Autism Myths and Facts: What Parents Need to Know in 2026

As a parent in 2026, I know you're bombarded with information about autism from every direction. It's exhausting trying to separate what's real from what's not, especially when authorities are endorsing unproven treatments and discredited theories. This guide to autism myths and facts will help navigate the overwhelming amount of information by answering some of the most common questions clinicians are fielding from parents in recent months.

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Bethany Barney, MSS, LCSW Bethany Barney, MSS, LCSW

The Parent’s Guide to Autism Evaluation

You're curious about an autism evaluation for your child. Maybe your pediatrician or school recommended it, or maybe you've been watching and wondering long enough that you're ready for answers. This guide will walk you through an example of what a quality evaluation process looks like, help you know what to expect, and explain what makes Blackbird Health’s approach special.

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Dr. Nicole Garber Dr. Nicole Garber

What to Expect from Your Child’s First Mental Health Evaluation | Blackbird Health

If you're reading this, you've likely noticed something is off with your child—maybe their grades are slipping, they're withdrawing from activities they once loved, or their behavior at school has become a concern. Perhaps your pediatrician suggested you seek specialized support, or you simply sense as a parent that your child needs more than you can provide alone.

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Dr. Nicole Garber Dr. Nicole Garber

Autism Evaluation, Testing, and Therapy for Children in Philadelphia

You're searching for autism evaluation in Philadelphia because you've noticed something with your child. Maybe they struggle with social situations, have intense interests, or react differently to sensory input than other kids their age. You've been researching on your own and trying to understand what's happening. Now you want to make the right choice for your child and your family.

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Jessica Sanchez, PMHNP Jessica Sanchez, PMHNP

Can a Child Have Both ADHD and Autism?

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already done a lot of searching about ADHD and autism. Maybe your child has a diagnosis that explains some things but not everything. Perhaps you’ve discussed neurodiversity. You’ve tried strategies that work sometimes and fail other times. You’ve probably left appointments with pieces of an answer and a plan that never quite adds up to the full picture. What you know for sure is that something is still being missed.

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Blackbird Health Blackbird Health

Autism Testing for Kids in King of Prussia (2026)

If you've been searching for autism testing late at night, replaying conversations with teachers, or wondering if your child's behaviors signal something more, you're not alone. The uncertainty can feel overwhelming. You want answers right away, clarity, and the right next steps for your child.

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Blackbird Health Blackbird Health

Co-Occurring Conditions in Children

Your child has a diagnosis. But something still feels off. Their struggles go beyond what one label explains. Treatment only helps so much. And you keep wondering why.

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Madison Verner Madison Verner

Top 10 Activities for Neurodivergent Kids in Fairfax County, VA

Finding fun, safe, and inclusive activities for neurodivergent kids can sometimes feel like navigating a maze, especially for parents and caregivers who are trying to meet unique sensory, emotional, or social needs. As someone with ADHD and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, I understand how important it is to create environments where neurodivergent kids can thrive. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the top 10 activities in and around Fairfax County for children with ADHD, anxiety, autism, and ODD. Whether your child finds friends at a sensory-friendly play space, peace by the water, or joy in movement, this list is full of sensory-friendly and ability-adapted options designed to meet them where they are.

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