Pediatric Psych

Hello from someone who started out in pedi psych and still works there per diem. My unit is a combined unit, ages 4-17 but we don't take aggressive 16/17 year olds due to the young kids. My best advice is to go there without any preconceived notions. Pedi psych is one of those fields where you can plan to a T how you think the day is going to go but then you step on the unit and it's out the window in 2.2 seconds. Be flexible and open to the kids' needs...some kids respond well to firm limits and others need a gentle hand. You will find the apple does not fall far from the tree...a lot of times we don't see the aggression that brought them in here because they are away from their trigger (aka parent/guardian!), and for some, being on the unit is like a much needed break from the stressors of home. Everyday is a new learning experience for sure. I absolutely love going to work at my unit.