The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Program at Rush provides evaluation and treatment to help young people address and overcome emotional and behavioral problems.

Under the direction of psychiatrist Louis Kraus, MD, the program offers traditional and innovative treatments for children and adolescents are provided by Rush psychiatrists, psychologists and clinical social workers with special training in child psychiatry and family therapy. And when a patient's psychiatric problems are complicated by a neurological condition, learning disability, substance abuse or another medical condition, additional Rush specialists are available to lend their expertise.

Research conducted during the past 15 years has added greatly to our understanding of behavioral problems and makes it possible to diagnose and medically treat these conditions, even in very young children. This early intervention can prevent more serious problems later in life.

• Individualized treatment options matched to each child’s intellectual and emotional maturity level.
• Inpatient diagnostic, therapeutic and educational services for children and adolescents with severe emotional disturbances.

• Cognitive-behavioral treatment modalities. Research studies have proven the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy with children and adolescents who have difficulties with depression and anxiety.  Psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and psychiatric nurses conduct cognitive-behavioral therapy using research-based techniques.  Combined therapy and medication treatments are also available.

• Comprehensive assessment and treatment for children with early onset bipolar disorder and affective dysregulation.
• The Rush Day School, offering education and treatment for emotionally disturbed children ages 5 to 14.
• The Rush Educational and Emotional Health Evaluation Program for Children and Adolescents, dedicated to helping children reach their full potential in the school setting.