About PANS/PANDAS Therapy
At Kiddo Psychiatry, we offer psychiatric care for children and teens with PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections). Our approach is holistic and collaborative, blending evidence-based psychiatric treatment with supportive care for the whole family.
We provide:
- Psychiatric Medication Management to help stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, and address OCD-like symptoms
- Individual and Family Therapy focused on emotional regulation, behavior challenges, and parent-child communication
- Lifestyle and Nutritional Guidance to support overall well-being, including sleep hygiene and stress management
- Integrative Psychiatric Care combining traditional and complementary approaches
- Parent Coaching and Psychoeducation to help families navigate their childโs symptoms and recovery
We work closely with your childโs pediatrician or primary care provider to ensure coordinated care. However, we do not prescribe antibiotics, steroids or IVIG, as these treatments fall outside the scope of our psychiatric practice.
Our goal is to support children and families facing the challenges of PANS/PANDAS with compassion, clarity, and expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child might have PANS or PANDAS?
Symptoms usually come on suddenly and may include severe OCD behaviors, motor or vocal tics, intense anxiety, mood swings, sleep issues, or changes in eating habits. A recent infectionโespecially strepโmay point toward PANDAS.
Are PANS and PANDAS permanent?
Not always. Many children improve with early and appropriate treatment. However, symptoms can flare up again, especially with future infections, so ongoing care and monitoring may be needed.
How are PANS and PANDAS diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on a detailed review of your childโs symptoms, medical and psychiatric history, andโwhen relevantโlab tests to evaluate recent infections or immune activity. There is no single test that confirms the diagnosis.
Can therapy alone treat PANS/PANDAS?
Therapy is an important part of treatment, especially for managing OCD, anxiety, and mood symptoms. But in many cases, addressing the underlying immune or inflammatory response is also necessary for meaningful improvement.
What can parents do to support their childโs recovery?
Focus on creating a calm, structured home environment. Prioritize sleep, healthy nutrition, and routines. Stay in regular contact with your childโs care team, and donโt hesitate to ask questions or share concerns. Consistent follow-up matters.
