Finding a pediatrician who supports both physical and mental health is essential — especially as more families seek help for children struggling with anxiety, ADHD or depression. But how do you know if a doctor is the right fit?
Experts from University of Chicago Medicine say that pediatricians should be a trusted part of your child’s care team, helping to screen for concerns, coordinate with specialists and guide families toward the right resources.
Here are five key questions to ask when choosing a pediatrician who will be a true partner in your child’s mental health journey.
1. Does this pediatrician take child mental health concerns seriously?
Not all pediatricians routinely ask about mental health, but they should. Regular check-ins help identify concerns early, and open conversations make it easier for children to express their feelings in a safe space.
“Being a primary care provider for these children, one of the biggest things we can do is ask those questions at every visit,” says Dr. Christine Kazlauskas*, a pediatrician at UChicago Medicine Medical Group in Calumet City and Beverly.
- What parents can do: Ask during an initial visit: “How do you address child mental health concerns during checkups?” A great pediatrician will talk openly about emotional well-being — not just physical health.
2. Does the pediatrician have experience treating children with anxiety, depression or ADHD?
If your child has specific behavioral health concerns, it’s important to find a doctor who understands their unique needs.
I always encourage parents to ask, ‘What would be your approach to my child’s concerns?’” says Dr. Adam Gorman, a UChicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital pediatrician in Cottage Grove. He adds that parents should look for a doctor who listens with an open mind and is transparent about both their expertise and when they may need to consult others.
- What parents can do: Don’t be afraid to ask directly: “Do you have experience working with children who have ADHD or anxiety?” If a doctor hesitates or lacks a clear approach, they may not be the best fit.
3. How does the pediatrician handle referrals to child mental health specialists?
Since access to child psychologists and psychiatrists can be limited — and wait times can be long — a pediatrician should help navigate the system and connect families with reliable mental health resources.
“We actively reach out to our psychiatry colleagues, not just for referrals, but even for quick consults,” says Dr. Kazlauskas. “That collaboration is essential.”
- What parents can do: Ask: “While we wait for a specialist appointment, how will you continue to support my child?” and “If my child needs additional support, how do you help with referrals?” Look for a doctor with strong connections to specialists and is knowledgeable about school-based services.
4. Will this pediatrician be an active part of my child’s care team?
Managing a child’s mental health often involves working with therapists, school counselors and other specialists. A pediatrician should be comfortable collaborating with this larger team.
“Mental health concerns impact school, sports and home life,” says Dr. Gorman. “A pediatrician should be able to help coordinate care and connect families with the right support.”
- What parents can do: Ask: “How do you work with schools or therapists if my child needs accommodations?” A supportive pediatrician will be proactive in coordinating care.
5. Does this doctor’s approach align with my family’s values?
Therapy is widely recommended as the first step in treating many child mental health conditions, but pediatricians may also recommend medication when needed. Look for a doctor who explains all the options and helps guide your family through the decision-making process.
“We want to do what’s best for the child,” says Dr. Kazlauskas. “Depending on the mental health concern, sometimes it’s therapy, sometimes it’s medication, but it’s always a conversation.”
- What parents can do: Ask: “How do you approach treatment for anxiety or ADHD?” A good doctor will discuss multiple options and respect your concerns.
Why might a pediatrician at UChicago Medicine be a good choice?
Choosing a pediatrician within a large, well-connected health system like UChicago Medicine can make a difference.
“Having access to specialists, social workers and developmental experts allows us to support families more effectively,” says Dr. Gorman. “It’s really a privilege and one of the reasons I wanted to work at the University of Chicago. I have a social worker in my office that can help families get access to resources.”
Even when specialist appointments take time, pediatricians at UChicago Medicine provide frequent check-ins to monitor progress and adjust care plans.
Final thoughts: Trust your instincts
Finding the right pediatrician for your child’s mental health isn’t just about credentials — it’s about trust, communication and a willingness to listen.
“Please reach out early and often. Don’t sit on it,” encourages Dr. Kazlauskas. “We’d rather talk about concerns now than wait until they become bigger issues.”
By asking the right questions and trusting your instincts, you can find a Chicago-area pediatrician who will be a true partner in your child’s physical and mental well-being.
This content is sponsored by UChicago Medicine. Learn more at UChicagoMedicine.org/General-Pediatrics.
**Dr. Kazlauskas is a UChicago Medicine Medical Group provider. UChicago Medicine Medical Group is comprised of UCM Medical Group, Inc. f/k/a UCM Care Network Medical Group, Inc., and UCM Medical Group, LLC f/k/a Primary Healthcare Associates, S.C. UChicago Medicine Medical Group providers are not employees or agents of the University of Chicago Medical Center, the University of Chicago, UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial, UChicago Medicine at Ingalls – Calumet City or UChicago Medicine Medical Group – Beverly.
