PANS / PANDAS

PANS PANDAS refers to pediatric neuropsychiatric conditions that cause a sudden onset of emotional and behavioral symptoms in children and adolescents. These symptoms can appear abruptly and may include obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, severe anxiety, mood changes, tics, sleep disturbances, or changes in eating habits. For many families, the sudden nature of these changes can feel overwhelming and confusing.

At Kiddo Psychiatry, we provide specialized psychiatric care to support children experiencing these challenges while helping families understand and manage symptoms in a compassionate, structured way.

Understanding Sudden-Onset Symptoms

Children with PANS PANDAS may show rapid changes in behavior, mood, or daily functioning. Symptoms can include anxiety, tics, obsessive thoughts, and sleep or eating changes. Early recognition and professional support help children regain emotional balance and confidence

How We Support Children and Families

At Kiddo Psychiatry, our treatment approach is collaborative and individualized. We focus on addressing emotional distress, improving daily functioning, and strengthening family support systems.

Psychiatric Medication Management: When appropriate, medication may be used to help stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, and manage obsessive or compulsive behaviors. Medication decisions are made carefully and monitored closely as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Individual and Family Therapy: Therapy sessions focus on emotional regulation, coping skills, and communication strategies. Family involvement is encouraged to help parents better understand symptoms and support progress at home.

Integrative Psychiatric Care: We combine evidence-based psychiatric practices with supportive lifestyle guidance, including sleep hygiene, stress management, and emotional wellness strategies that promote overall balance.

Parent Coaching and Education: Parents receive guidance on how to respond to symptoms without reinforcing distress. Education and coaching help families feel empowered and supported throughout their child’s care journey.

Coordinated Care Approach

We work closely with your child’s pediatrician or primary care provider to ensure coordinated psychiatric care. While we do not prescribe antibiotics, steroids, or IVIG, our role is to address the emotional and behavioral impact of symptoms through specialized psychiatric treatment and therapeutic support.

Families may also benefit from related services such as anxiety therapy when symptoms overlap with ongoing worry, emotional distress, or behavioral challenges.