My first advanced practice certification was as a child and adolescent clinical nurse specialist, and my first job after graduate school was at the world-renowned Philadelphia Child Guidance Center. Children and families have been at the heart of my work ever since.
Reasons families come to me
- ADHD and attention problems at school
- Anxiety, worry, school avoidance or panic
- Depression, irritability or withdrawal
- Oppositional or defiant behavior (ODD)
- Behavioral problems at home or school
- Trouble with peers and friendships
- Low self-esteem
- Big life transitions, stress and adjustment
How I work with children, teens and parents
When I work with children and teens, I involve parents as much as possible. Children and teens have a right to privacy, but keeping parents in the dark under the guise of confidentiality doesn't make for the best care, especially when prescribing medication.
Treatment draws on structural family therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma-focused CBT, paired with medication when it's warranted. Children can see improved self-esteem, better peer relations, better school performance and less conflict at home.
Parenting support
Parenting a child who's struggling is exhausting. Parent guidance is built into my work: practical strategies for routines, homework, behavior and communication, so home gets calmer for everyone.
Working with your child's school
When it would help, and with your permission, I'm glad to coordinate with teachers and school counselors on things like classroom accommodations or 504 and IEP planning, so the support your child gets at home and at school points in the same direction.
Children and teens have a right to privacy, but keeping parents in the dark under the guise of confidentiality does not make for the best care, especially when prescribing medication.
Denise Owen-FabriciusMSN, APN, PMHNP-BC
