Child Psychiatrists

Child and adolescent psychiatrists are medical doctors who undergo medical school, a psychiatry residency, and specialized fellowship training. They are qualified to diagnose and treat pediatric mental health disorders, including the prescription of medication.

In the United States, the profession is represented by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), a nonprofit established in 1953 with over 8,000 members. The organization focuses on advocacy, education, and research to promote the healthy development of children and families.

There is a significant global shortage of these specialists, with estimates in high-income countries at approximately 1.19 psychiatrists per 100,000 children. This supply gap has increased the relevance of innovations in delivery models, such as telepsychiatry services.