Psychiatric Care for Teens and Adolescents in Texas

At what age does Lyte Psychiatry treat teens?

We treat patients ages 13 and up. Younger children (under 13) typically require a child and adolescent psychiatry specialist. We provide referrals for patients outside our age range.

Do parents need to be present?

For patients under 18, a parent or guardian must consent to treatment. We encourage parent involvement, especially at the initial evaluation. We also give teens private time with the provider. Adolescents are more forthcoming about sensitive topics when they know their confidentiality is protected within legal limits.

Are antidepressants safe for teenagers?

Fluoxetine and escitalopram have FDA approval for adolescent depression. The FDA requires a black box warning about a small increased risk of suicidal thinking in teens starting antidepressants. This risk is real but small, and must be weighed against the substantially larger risk of untreated depression. We schedule close follow-up during the first weeks of any new medication.

How common is teen depression in Texas?

Mental Health America's 2023 report ranked Texas 48th out of 51 states for youth mental health access. Roughly 1 in 6 Texas youth have a major depressive episode each year, and the majority receive no treatment. Lyte Psychiatry is working to close that gap through telehealth.

What is the difference between normal moodiness and a mood disorder?

Teenagers are supposed to have emotional ups and downs. A mood disorder goes further: the disturbance is more intense, lasts longer, and clearly interferes with school, friendships, family relationships, or basic self-care. When in doubt, get an evaluation. It is always better to be assessed and told things are fine than to miss something that needs attention.

Can telehealth work for teen psychiatric care?

Yes, and many teens actually prefer it. Telehealth avoids the stigma of being seen entering a clinic at school or in their neighborhood. It also fits more easily into after-school schedules. Lyte Psychiatry offers HIPAA-compliant video appointments to all Texas and New Mexico residents. A parent can participate from the same room or from a different one as appropriate.

What if my teen refuses to see a psychiatrist?

This is common. Framing the visit around specific problems (sleep, focus, feeling better at school) rather than being "mentally ill" often reduces resistance. Telehealth feels less formal. Giving teens some choice in the process increases buy-in. If your teen is in crisis, do not wait for buy-in. Call 988 or go to the nearest ER.

Does Lyte Psychiatry prescribe ADHD medication for teens?

Yes. After a comprehensive ADHD evaluation, we can prescribe stimulant and non-stimulant medications for teens. Texas law requires an in-person evaluation for the initial controlled substance prescription. Follow-up appointments can be via telehealth. We monitor weight, blood pressure, and sleep at each visit.