Understanding Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are designed to assess and treat a wide range of mental health, emotional, and behavioural difficulties in children and young people. These services are delivered by trained mental health professionals and focus on helping young individuals manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
What is a CAMHS Service?
A CAMHS service offers:
Mental health assessments for children and adolescents
Diagnosis and treatment for emotional, behavioural, and developmental conditions
One-to-one therapy, family therapy, and group sessions
Medication management where appropriate
Support with school, social, and family challenges
Specialist services for self-harm, trauma, or crisis situations
CAMHS can be provided through the NHS, private clinics, or community mental health centres.
What to Expect from a CAMHS Service
When accessing CAMHS, you can expect:
An initial referral, usually from a GP, school, or health visitor
An in-depth assessment involving both the child and their parents/carers
A personalised care or treatment plan, which may include therapy, counselling, or medical support
Regular sessions to track progress and make adjustments as needed
Support for both the young person and their family to ensure holistic care
The focus is always on building trust and ensuring the child or young person feels safe and heard.
Who Conducts this Service?
CAMHS services are provided by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals, including:
Child psychologists and psychotherapists
Psychiatrists who can prescribe and manage medication
Mental health nurses
Family therapists and social workers
Occupational therapists and speech and language therapists
All professionals accessible through My Health Assistant are trained and registered in child and adolescent mental health care.
Who Might Need This Service?
CAMHS is suitable for children and young people (typically up to 18 years old) experiencing:
Persistent sadness, anxiety, or mood swings
Behavioural issues at school or home
Eating disorders or body image concerns
Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Trauma from bullying, abuse, or loss
Difficulty managing ADHD, autism, or OCD
Trouble with social relationships or emotional regulation
Early intervention can make a significant difference in long-term outcomes.
Types of CAMHS Support
There are several types of CAMHS services, including:
Tier 1 – General support from GPs, school counsellors, or youth workers
Tier 2 – Targeted services such as counselling or early-intervention therapy
Tier 3 – Specialist services for moderate to severe mental health conditions
Tier 4 – Inpatient or intensive community-based care for critical cases
Some services are available in-person, while others may be delivered through online or telephone support.
The Risks Associated with CAMHS
There are minimal risks associated with accessing CAMHS, but challenges can include:
Long waiting times in some areas
Stigma or reluctance to engage in therapy from the young person
Limited service availability in rural locations
To reduce delays and access the right help quickly, many families turn to private or hybrid services available via My Health Assistant.
How to Choose the Right Health Professional
To find the most suitable CAMHS service near me, look for:
Practitioners who specialise in your child’s specific needs or age group
A supportive, child-friendly environment
Providers offering a clear treatment plan with family involvement
Positive feedback from other families
Flexible appointment times and follow-up care
My Health Assistant can help you search and connect with trusted CAMHS professionals in your area.
Summary
Mental health challenges in children and teens are more common than ever, but with the right support, young people can thrive. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) offer vital care for emotional, behavioural, and developmental issues. Use My Health Assistant to find reliable CAMHS services near me and take the first step toward mental wellbeing for your child.
