Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Specialised mental health care for young people in Kisumu
Written by Glintcare Clinical Team
Our multidisciplinary clinical team develops and reviews educational mental health content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with current clinical practice.
Understanding Youth Mental Health
Mental health conditions affect approximately one in five children and adolescents worldwide. These conditions can have profound effects on development, education, relationships, and future well-being. Early intervention is critical — it can alter the trajectory of a young person's development and prevent more serious problems in adulthood.
At Glintcare Wellness and Medical Centre in Milimani, Kisumu, our child and adolescent mental health unit provides specialised care for young people aged 5 to 18. Our team includes child psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists trained in developmentally appropriate approaches that engage young people and support their families.
Common Signs of Mental Health Concerns in Young People
Mental health concerns in children and adolescents may present differently than in adults. Parents, teachers, and caregivers should be aware of these potential signs.
Persistent sadness, irritability, or mood swings lasting more than a few weeks
Withdrawal from friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities
Sudden decline in school performance or refusal to attend school
Excessive worry or fearfulness that seems out of proportion
Frequent physical complaints such as headaches, stomach aches, or fatigue
Significant changes in appetite or weight
Sleep disturbances including nightmares, insomnia, or excessive sleep
Angry outbursts, aggression, or defiance beyond typical developmental levels
Self-harm behaviours such as cutting or hitting
Talking about death, suicide, or not wanting to be alive
Risky behaviours including substance use or dangerous activities
Difficulty concentrating or sitting still that affects learning
Extreme clinginess or separation anxiety beyond developmental norms
Regression in previously mastered developmental milestones
Treatment Options for Young People
We offer a range of developmentally appropriate, evidence-based treatments for children and adolescents.
Play therapy — using play to help younger children express and process emotions
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy adapted for children and adolescents
Trauma-Focused CBT for young people who have experienced trauma
Family therapy to improve family dynamics and support
Parent training and support to build effective parenting strategies
School consultation and liaison to coordinate care with educators
Medication management when appropriate, with careful monitoring
Art and expressive therapies for non-verbal expression
Social skills training for peer relationship challenges
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques for anxiety and stress
Group therapy for adolescents with shared experiences
Assessment Process for Young People
Comprehensive assessment involving the child, parents or guardians, and school input
Developmental history review covering milestones, health, and family context
Standardised assessment tools appropriate for the child's age
Observation of the child in clinical and natural settings
Parent interviews to understand concerns, family dynamics, and parenting approaches
School consultation to gather information about academic and social functioning
Collaborative discussion of findings and treatment recommendations
Ongoing monitoring of progress with regular feedback to family
When to Seek Help for Your Child
If you notice persistent changes in your child's behaviour, mood, or functioning that last more than a few weeks, it is worth seeking a professional assessment.
Changes in behaviour or mood persist for more than two to three weeks
Your child's distress is causing significant family disruption
School performance has noticeably declined
Your child has expressed thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Your child is being bullied or is bullying others
Your teenager is withdrawing completely from family and friends
Physical complaints have no clear medical cause
You feel overwhelmed and unsure how to help your child
A teacher or school counsellor has raised concerns
Your family is going through a major transition such as divorce or relocation
How Glintcare Helps Children and Families
Our child and adolescent unit provides a welcoming, child-friendly environment designed to put young people and their families at ease.
Specialist child and adolescent clinicians with paediatric training
Child-friendly assessment and therapy rooms
Parent involvement as partners in treatment planning
School liaison and coordination
Developmentally appropriate approaches for every age group
Family support and psychoeducation throughout treatment
Care coordination with paediatricians and other healthcare providers
Flexible appointment times to accommodate school schedules
Crisis support for urgent concerns
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Our team is here to help. Book a confidential consultation with one of our specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Further Reading
Supporting articles written by our mental health team
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
In Crisis? Immediate Help Is Available
Call our 24/7 crisis support line: +254 794 590 452
If you are in immediate danger, please call emergency services (999) or go to your nearest emergency room.
Need Professional Support?
Our team of experienced mental health professionals is here to help. Book a confidential consultation today.