Child Psychiatry
What Is Child and Adolescent Psychiatry?
A child and adolescent psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in the mental health of young people.
They understand how a child’s thinking, emotions and behaviour change as they grow, and how health, family life, learning and environment all play a part.
The focus is not on blaming the child or the parents. It is on understanding what is happening and finding the right support.
Dr. Fatema Tuj Johora Joti
Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist
Qualifications
MBBS, BCS (Health), MD (BMU/Ex-PG Hospital)
About & Biography
Dr. Fatema Tuj Johora Joti is a Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at AQIDAH. She completed her MD at BSMMU and worked as a Registrar at the National Institute of Mental Health in Dhaka. She provides compassionate, evidence-based care for children and adolescents.
Areas of Expertise
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Depressive Disorders
- Bipolar Mood Disorder
- Anxiety Disorders
- OCD
- Eating Disorders
- Behavioral Disorders
- Internet Addiction
- Borderline Personality Disorder
Appointment Time: Saturday to Thursday ( 10 AM to 8 PM)
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Concerns a Child Psychiatrist May Help With
- Atynxie, including separation anxiety, school worries and phobias
- Low mood and depression
- Attention and activity difficulties, such as ADHD
- Behavioural difficulties, such as frequent anger, defiance or aggression
- Autism spectrum concerns
- Obsessive-compulsive symptoms
- Sleep problems
- Difficulties after stressful or upsetting events**
- Emotional struggles during adolescence, including school pressure and peer problems
A diagnosis can only be made by a qualified professional after a full assessment.
Warning Signs by Age
Every child is different, and one sign alone does not mean there is a problem. Consider seeking advice if you notice a pattern that lasts for weeks and affects daily life.
Younger children
- Frequent tantrums or intense anger that is hard to calm
- Extreme clinginess, fear or worry
- Sudden loss of skills they previously had
- Trouble playing or interacting with other children
Primary school age
- Reluctance to go to school, or stomach aches and headaches with no clear medical cause
- Difficulty concentrating or sitting still, beyond what is typical for their age
- Changes in sleep, eating or mood
- Sadness, withdrawal or loss of interest in play
Teenagers
- Persistent low mood, irritability or hopelessness
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- A sharp drop in school performance
- Major changes in sleep, appetite or behaviour
- Risky behaviour or use of substances
If your child talks about harming themselves, or you fear for their safety, please contact local emergency services or seek urgent medical help immediately.
What to Expect From an Assessment
Step 1: Meeting the family. The psychiatrist talks with parents or carers, and with the child or teenager in a way that suits their age.
Step 2: Gathering the full picture. This includes developmental history, health, family background, and how things are going at home and at school. Reports from teachers can be very helpful.
Step 3: Understanding the difficulty. The psychiatrist explains what may be going on in clear, non-judgemental language.
Step 4: Planning together. You agree on a plan that may include therapy, parent guidance, school support, other assessments or, where appropriate, medication.
Teenagers may also have some time alone with the psychiatrist so they feel comfortable speaking openly. Your psychiatrist will explain how confidentiality works for young people.
Treatment and Support
Care is tailored to the child and family and may include:
- Psychoeducation for the child and family
- Talking therapies and behavioural approaches
- Parent guidance and practical strategies for home
- Coordination with school and other professionals
- Medication, used only when it is judged helpful and after discussing benefits and risks with the family
How Parents Can Support Their Child
- Listen without rushing to fix or judge.
- Keep routines for sleep, meals and homework.
- Praise effort and small steps.
- Stay calm during difficult moments.
- Limit screen time late at night.
- Take care of your own wellbeing too.
Myths and Facts: Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Myth: Behaviour problems are always caused by bad parenting.
Fact: Many factors play a part, including temperament, development, health and stress. Parents are partners in the solution, not the cause to blame.
Myth: Children are too young to have anxiety or depression.
Fact: Children and teenagers can experience both, and it often looks different from adults, such as irritability, stomach aches or avoiding school.
Myth: Seeing a psychiatrist means my child will be medicated.
Fact: Many children are helped without medication. It is considered only when appropriate and after discussion with you.
Myth: It is just a phase.
Fact: Phases pass. Difficulties that last for weeks and affect daily life deserve attention.
Why Choose AQIDAH Healthcare?
We understand that seeking help for your child can feel worrying. Our approach is gentle, respectful and family-centred. We explain every step and work with you, your child and, where helpful, their school. Because AQIDAH Healthcare also offers speech and language therapy, psychology and behavioural support, your child’s needs can be looked at together.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can a child see a psychiatrist?
Children of any age can be assessed if there are concerns about emotions, behaviour or development.
Will my child need medication?
Not necessarily. Many difficulties are helped with therapy and practical support. Medication is considered only when appropriate, and never without discussion with you.
Can I come to the appointment with my child?
Yes. Parents and carers are an important part of the assessment.
Is my child’s information private?
Yes. Information is handled with care, and your psychiatrist will explain how privacy works.
Are online appointments available?
Yes. Online and in-person appointments are available, depending on your child’s needs.
Related Services at AQIDAH Healthcare
* Adult ADHD
*Adult Psychiatry
*Best Female Psychologists in Dhaka
Take the First Step for Your Child
Getting help early gives children the best chance to feel understood, confident and well. You do not have to work it out alone.
Book a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Consultation with AQIDAH Healthcare
Aqidah Healthcare
Firoz Tower (13th Floor), 152/3B, Bir Uttam Nuruzzaman Sarak, Panthapath, Dhaka-1215
Book an Appointment: +8801339570424
Website: https://www.theaqidah.com/en