Frequently Asked Questions

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor, just like your pediatrician, internist, or surgeon. The difference is that after completing medical school, a psychiatrist spends four additional training years specializing in the treatment of psychiatric disorders and mental health. They can, therefore, perform therapy as well as prescribe medications. Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) are advanced practice nurses who also diagnose and treat mental illnesses. Psychologists hold doctoral degrees and provide therapy and psychological testing; they typically don’t prescribe medication. Therapists—like LPCs, LCSWs, and MFTs—usually have a master’s degree and offer talk therapy but don’t prescribe medication. These professionals often work together to provide well-rounded, personalized care.

Doctors do not have to be board-certified to practice medicine; they simply need to have completed the necessary requirements to hold a medical license in the state where they practice. The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology was established to assure patients that their physician meets the highest criteria within their specialty. Physicians who are board-certified are referred to as "Diplomates." The Board requires Diplomates to retest at regular intervals through the Maintenance of Certification Program.

Some common issues children face regarding their mental health include anxiety, depression, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. This is not an exhaustive list and your child may experience more than one issue at the same time or across childhood. 

Dr. Yarberry's specialities include the following: 

• Anxiety Disorders

• Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

• Depressive Disorders

• Mood Disorders

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorders 

• School Issues

• Sleep Difficulties

• Tic Disorders

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s ability to regulate attention, control impulses, and manage hyperactive behaviors. It is one of the most common mental health conditions diagnosed in children and can persist into adolescence and adulthood. Treatment and management may include therapy, medication, accomodations, and lifestyle adjustments.

ADHD is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:

• Behavioral questionnaires completed by parents, teachers, and caregivers.

• Clinical interviews with the child and family.

• Observations of behavior across settings (e.g., home, school).

• Assessment of symptoms lasting at least six months and causing significant impairment.

Anxiety is a common mental health condition in children and teens that involves excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that interferes with daily life. While some worry is normal, anxiety becomes a concern when it's intense, persistent, and hard for a child to manage. It may show up as restlessness, trouble sleeping, irritability, or physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches. Common types include generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and separation anxiety. Treatment often includes therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication. With support, children can learn coping skills and feel more confident and calm in daily situations.

Depression in children and teens is more than just sadness—it’s a serious mental health condition that affects how they think, feel, and act. It may show up as persistent low mood, irritability, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating. Some children may also express feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. Depression can impact school, relationships, and daily life. It’s treatable, often through therapy (like cognitive behavioral therapy), and in some cases, medication.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is a condition seen in children marked by frequent, intense temper outbursts and ongoing irritability or anger between outbursts. Symptoms must be present for at least a year in multiple settings and typically begin before age 10. DMDD helps differentiate chronic mood issues from conditions like bipolar disorder. Treatment often includes therapy, parent support, and sometimes medication. With the right care, children with DMDD can learn to better manage their emotions and improve daily functioning.

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. Signs often appear in early childhood and can vary widely from person to person. Common characteristics include difficulty with social interactions, repetitive behaviors, intense interests, and sensitivity to sounds, textures, or changes in routine. Autism is a spectrum, meaning individuals can have a range of strengths and challenges. With early diagnosis and support—such as therapy, educational accommodations, and family guidance—children with autism can grow, learn, and thrive in their own unique ways.

Child bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that involves extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These shifts in mood, energy, and behavior go beyond typical ups and downs and can significantly affect a child’s daily life. During manic periods, a child may seem unusually energetic, overly happy, talkative, or impulsive. During depressive episodes, they may feel very sad, tired, or lose interest in things they once enjoyed. Bipolar disorder in children can be hard to diagnose because symptoms may overlap with other conditions, like ADHD or DMDD. Treatment usually involves a combination of medication, therapy, and support for both the child and family to help manage symptoms and improve stability.