Child Guidance Clinic

The Child Guidance Clinic is a state-licensed outpatient psychiatric clinic for children which provides a multi-disciplinary approach to problems associated with behavioral, emotional and learning difficulties of children and youth aged 3 to 18. Treatment is based on a comprehensive mental health evaluation and is intended to diminish the interference of psychiatric problems in everyday life while fostering age-appropriate development.

Treatment is focused on the principles of child development and supports enhanced family functioning. Clinical services include diagnostic evaluation; individual, family, parent and group therapy; medication evaluation and management; crisis intervention; substance use evaluations and counseling; and collaboration with schools and other providers.

Services are offered at the Parent Child Resource Center, 30 Elizabeth Street, Derby, CT and our Shoreline Parent Child Resource Center at 28 Branford Road, North Branford.

Rapid Response Service

A program of the Child Guidance Clinic, the Rapid Response Service provides urgent evaluation and psychiatric care for children and families in crisis.

Intensive Outpatient Program

Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) focuses on children between the ages of 5 and 18 who have difficulty meeting school, family and/or social expectations due to serious emotional, behavioral and social difficulties. Children attend daily group sessions for approximately 8-12 weeks which emphasize problem-solving and coping skills, emotional expression, learning how emotions and actions work together, and improving family and social relationships. Treatment includes play, art and drama therapy, psychiatric services, and active parent/family involvement.

Medication Management

We provide medication management services to therapy clients who are actively participating in one or more of our clinical programs.

Today’s Choices

Today’s Choices is an evidence-based clinical and educational program to help youth ages 13 – 18 who use substances and/or engage in other risky behaviors. The program helps youth understand the importance of their daily choices , which can result in opportunities as well as consequences, Parents learn about adolescent’s challenges, how parents’ behavior impacts their children’s choices, how to improve communication, and help their children make better choices.

Commercial and HUSKY/Medicaid insurances accepted, sliding fee scale available.

For more information or to discuss referring a child to one of our clinical programs, please call 203-800-7177