7 Child Mental Health Specialists in Florida (ADHD, Anxiety, Autism)

When your child is struggling emotionally or behaviorally, it's natural to have questions. Maybe you've noticed they're finding it difficult to focus in school. Perhaps they're feeling anxious more often, withdrawing from friends, or showing behaviors that make you wonder whether an autism evaluation or professional support could help.

Whatever has brought you here, you're not alone. Many families reach a point where they need guidance from someone who understands children's mental health and can help them make sense of what they're seeing.

The good news is that there are experienced professionals across Florida who support children and adolescents with ADHD, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and other emotional or developmental challenges. Some provide therapy, others offer psychiatric care and medication management, while some specialize in comprehensive evaluations. Finding the right fit depends on your child's needs and the type of support you're looking for.

To help you get started, we've highlighted seven experienced child mental health specialists serving families across Florida. Each brings a different area of expertise, making this guide a practical starting point for parents exploring their options.

Did you know? 

If You're Wondering Where to Start, Read This First

There isn't one professional who's the perfect fit for every child. Some children benefit most from therapy, while others may need a psychiatric evaluation, medication management, or a comprehensive psychological assessment. In many cases, families work with more than one specialist as their child's needs change over time.

The most important step isn't finding the "best" provider — it's finding someone with the right experience who listens, communicates clearly, and creates a treatment plan that fits your child and your family.

Compare These Child Mental Health Specialists

Why We Chose These Specialists

Parents deserve information they can trust, especially when making decisions about their child's mental health. For this guide, we looked for professionals with strong clinical credentials, experience working with children and adolescents, and expertise in supporting conditions such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and related developmental or emotional concerns.

We also considered each provider's areas of focus, treatment approach, and the range of services they offer. While every family has different needs, the specialists featured here have established experience helping children and their caregivers navigate mental health challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care.

Meet Seven Trusted Child Mental Health Specialists Across Florida

1. Acelyn Summerson, MD

Finding the right psychiatrist can make a big difference when a child is struggling with attention, anxiety, mood changes, or other emotional concerns. Dr. Acelyn Summerson is a board-certified psychiatrist who works with children, adolescents, and adults, providing thoughtful psychiatric care that's tailored to each individual's needs.

She believes that successful treatment begins with understanding the whole person rather than focusing only on a diagnosis. By working closely with children and their families, she develops personalized treatment plans that support both emotional wellbeing and long-term growth.

Areas of focus

• ADHD

• Anxiety disorders

• Depression

• Bipolar disorder

• Child and adolescent psychiatry

• Medication management

Why families choose her

• Board-certified psychiatrist

• Treats children, teenagers, and adults

• Personalized treatment plans

• Collaborative approach with families

• Virtual appointments available

2. Mouvielle Caro, MD — MorMindful

Every child experiences mental health challenges differently, which is why Dr. Mouvielle Caro takes an individualized approach to care. She works with children and adolescents experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric conditions, helping families better understand their options while providing ongoing support throughout treatment.

Her care combines careful evaluation, open communication, and medication management when appropriate, giving families a clear plan that can adapt as their child's needs change over time.

Areas of focus

• ADHD

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Medication management

• General psychiatric care

Why families choose her

• Experienced psychiatrist

• Personalized treatment approach

• Works closely with parents and caregivers

• Virtual appointments available

3. Katrina Verdon, PsyD — MorMindful

Not every child who is struggling needs psychiatric care. For many families, therapy is the best place to begin. Dr. Katrina Verdon is a licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and families experiencing anxiety, trauma, emotional challenges, and life transitions.

She uses evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, to help children develop healthier coping strategies while creating a supportive environment where families feel heard and involved throughout the process.

Areas of focus

• Child and adolescent therapy

• Anxiety disorders

• Trauma

• EMDR

• Emotional regulation

Why families choose her

• Licensed clinical psychologist

• Experienced with children and teenagers

• Evidence-based therapeutic approaches

• Family-centered care

• Virtual appointments available

4. Ana Luz Rashad, LCSW — MorMindful

Children don't always have the words to explain what they're feeling. Sometimes those emotions appear through changes in behavior, school performance, or relationships. Ana Luz Rashad helps children and families understand those challenges while teaching practical coping skills that support healthy emotional development.

Her collaborative approach encourages parents to play an active role in their child's progress, creating strategies that can be carried into everyday life.

Areas of focus

• Child therapy

• Family therapy

• Anxiety

• Behavioral concerns

• Emotional development

Why families choose her

• Experienced child therapist

• Family-focused approach

• Practical coping strategies

• Warm, supportive care

5. Priti M. Kothari, MD

When a child is experiencing challenges that affect learning, behavior, or emotional wellbeing, families often look for someone with experience across a wide range of conditions. Dr. Priti M. Kothari is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who has worked with children facing ADHD, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and mood disorders.

Her approach focuses on understanding each child's unique strengths and challenges before developing a personalized treatment plan. She also believes parents play an important role throughout the treatment journey and works closely with families to ensure they feel informed and supported.

Areas of focus

• ADHD

• Autism spectrum disorder

• Anxiety disorders

• OCD

• Mood disorders

• Child and adolescent psychiatry

Why families choose her

• Board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist

• Extensive experience treating developmental and emotional conditions

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations

• Family-centered approach

• Personalized treatment planning

6. Preetham Grandhi, MD

Families across Florida looking for accessible psychiatric care may consider Dr. Preetham Grandhi, who provides child and adolescent psychiatric services through telepsychiatry. His practice supports children experiencing ADHD, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder.

Dr. Grandhi focuses on building strong relationships with both children and parents, recognizing that successful treatment often comes from open communication, careful monitoring, and a plan that evolves as a child grows.

Areas of focus

• ADHD

• Anxiety disorders

• Autism spectrum disorder

• OCD

• Depression

• Child and adolescent psychiatry

Why families choose him

• Board-certified psychiatrist

• Telepsychiatry services available across Florida

• Experience treating children and adolescents

• Collaborative treatment approach

• Individualized care plans

7. Alison Larson, DO

Children with developmental, behavioral, or emotional concerns often benefit from care that's tailored to their individual stage of growth. Dr. Alison Larson is dual board-certified in adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry, with experience treating children experiencing ADHD, anxiety disorders, developmental concerns, and other mental health conditions.

She believes treatment should be practical, collaborative, and focused on helping children succeed both at home and at school. By working closely with families, she creates care plans designed to support each child's long-term wellbeing.

Areas of focus

• ADHD

• Anxiety disorders

• Developmental concerns

• Child and adolescent psychiatry

• Medication management

Why families choose her

• Dual board-certified psychiatrist

• Experience working with children and adolescents

• Individualized treatment planning

• Family-focused care

• Broad experience with developmental and emotional concerns

ADHD, Anxiety, or Autism? Here's How to Decide Who to See

It's common for parents to feel unsure about which type of professional their child needs. While there's often some overlap, different specialists provide different types of care.

If you're still unsure, booking an initial consultation is often the easiest first step. A qualified professional can recommend whether additional testing, therapy, psychiatric care, or another type of support would be most appropriate.

When Is It Time to Reach Out for Professional Help?

Every child has difficult days, but if certain challenges continue over time or begin affecting school, friendships, or family life, it may be worth speaking with a mental health professional.

Some common reasons parents seek support include:

• Ongoing anxiety or excessive worrying

• Difficulty paying attention or staying organized

• Frequent emotional outbursts

• Noticeable changes in mood

• Social or communication challenges

• Concerns raised by teachers or school staff

• Questions about developmental milestones

Seeking help doesn't mean something is "wrong" with your child. It simply means you're looking for answers and support that can help them thrive.

Something Every Parent Should Remember

Every child develops at their own pace, and no diagnosis defines who they are or what they're capable of achieving. Whether your child needs therapy, psychiatric care, or simply a little extra support, early guidance can make a meaningful difference. The goal isn't to change who your child is — it's to help them build confidence, develop healthy coping skills, and reach their full potential.

Ask These Questions Before You Decide

Finding the right provider is about more than credentials. Asking a few thoughtful questions before your first appointment can help you feel more confident in your decision.

Consider asking:

• Do you regularly work with children my child's age?

• What experience do you have with ADHD, anxiety, or autism?

• Will parents be involved throughout treatment?

• Do you offer formal evaluations if they're needed?

• How do you work with schools, pediatricians, or other healthcare professionals?

• If medication is recommended, how will my child's progress be monitored?

The answers can help you understand whether a provider's approach matches your family's needs and expectations. You can also browse common questions on our FAQ page.

Looking for Care That Grows With Your Child?

Children's needs can change over time. A child who begins with therapy may later benefit from a psychiatric evaluation, while another may need a combination of counseling, medication management, and family support.

Practices that bring together different mental health professionals can make that journey easier by providing coordinated care under one roof. Whether your child needs help managing anxiety, navigating ADHD, or receiving ongoing emotional support, having access to a multidisciplinary team can create a more connected and consistent treatment experience.

Every Child's Journey Is Different

Finding the right child mental health specialist isn't about choosing the most well-known name. It's about finding someone who understands your child's unique needs and helps your family feel supported every step of the way.

Whether you're looking for answers about ADHD, anxiety, autism, or another concern, reaching out for professional guidance is a positive first step. With the right support, children can build confidence, strengthen coping skills, and develop the tools they need to thrive at home, in school, and beyond.

If you're searching for compassionate, evidence-based care, MorMindful offers comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, and families. From therapy and psychological support to psychiatric care and medication management, the team works closely with parents to create personalized treatment plans that support every stage of a child's development. Schedule an appointment or contact MorMindful today to learn how they can help your child build a healthier, more confident future.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can diagnose ADHD in children?

Several healthcare professionals can diagnose ADHD, including child psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, developmental pediatricians, and some qualified pediatricians. The right specialist depends on your child's symptoms and whether you also need therapy, medication management, or additional evaluations.

2. What's the difference between a child psychiatrist and a child psychologist?

A child psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and provide psychiatric treatment. A child psychologist focuses on psychological assessments and therapy but doesn't prescribe medication. Many families work with both professionals as part of their child's care.

3. Can a child mental health specialist help with autism?

Yes. Many child mental health specialists support children with autism spectrum disorder. Depending on their qualifications, they may provide therapy, behavioral support, psychiatric care, or work alongside psychologists and developmental specialists who perform comprehensive autism evaluations.

4. Does every child with ADHD need medication?

No. Medication is only one possible treatment option for ADHD. Some children benefit from behavioral therapy, parent training, school accommodations, or a combination of approaches. A qualified child psychiatrist or psychologist can recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your child's individual needs.

5. When should my child see a psychiatrist instead of a therapist?

If your child may need medication, has more complex mental health symptoms, or requires a psychiatric evaluation, seeing a child psychiatrist may be appropriate. If the main concern involves anxiety, behavior, emotional regulation, or coping skills, therapy with a psychologist or licensed therapist is often a good starting point. In many cases, both professionals work together.

6. What happens during a child's first mental health appointment?

The first appointment usually focuses on understanding your child's medical history, behavior, emotions, development, family background, and current concerns. Parents are often asked questions about home life and school, and the specialist may recommend further assessments or discuss possible treatment options.

7. How do I know if my child needs a mental health evaluation?

You may want to consider an evaluation if your child has ongoing difficulties with attention, anxiety, emotional regulation, behavior, learning, or social interactions that affect daily life. Speaking with a qualified mental health professional can help determine whether further assessment would be beneficial.

8. Are virtual appointments available for children?

Yes. Many child psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists now offer virtual appointments for consultations, follow-up care, and therapy sessions. However, some psychological testing and comprehensive developmental evaluations may still need to be completed in person.

9. How do I choose the right child mental health specialist in Florida?

Start by considering your child's specific needs. Look for a provider with experience treating children of a similar age and expertise in concerns such as ADHD, anxiety, autism, or behavioral challenges. It's also helpful to choose someone whose communication style makes both you and your child feel comfortable.

10. Can my child receive more than one type of mental health support?

Absolutely. Many children benefit from a team approach that may include therapy, psychiatric care, school support, and family guidance. Working with different professionals allows children to receive well-rounded care that's tailored to their changing needs as they grow. Check insurance and fees or explore our full range of services to learn more.