Max Gray Child and Adolescent Mood Disorders (CHAMP) Program
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We provide targeted care for pediatric, adult and geriatric patients. Call or to learn more about our psychiatry services.
Clinic Overview
The Max Gray Child and Adolescent Mood Disorders Program provides diagnostic evaluations, second opinion consultation, and short-term treatments (medication management and various forms of psychotherapy) for youth who have symptoms of significant and impairing mood disorders and their families. The program’s focus is on pediatric bipolar disorder (extreme high or “manic” moods alternating with periods of depressed mood) and major depression (impairing sadness, loss of interests in school or other activities, sleep disturbances, feelings of hopelessness, trouble with concentration, lack of motivation, fatigue, and often, suicidal thinking). We will see children from age 7 years to 17 yrs, 11 mos.
Our diagnostic evaluation is given in two parts: a psychiatric evaluation, which is a series of interviews with a clinical psychologist and/or a child psychiatrist about symptoms and areas of difficulty, including consideration of medical disorder. Depending on the conclusions of the combined team evaluation, we then offer treatment recommendations, which may include ongoing medication treatment and psychosocial therapy sessions, the latter involving family education and skill training. Many clients in CHAMP receive both services. Some clients and families may be offered participation in studies as well.
CHAMP also offers clinical services to youth with BSD through our Child Bipolar Network (CBN) research program. These studies are currently enrolling new clients:
- A 16-week ketogenic therapy trial for youth ages 12-21 with Bipolar Spectrum Disorders (BSDs). We hope to learn whether combining a 16-week ketogenic diet (low carbohydrate, moderate protein, high fat) with standard of care psychiatric treatment is feasible, well-tolerated, and associated with youth improvements (e.g., depression, executive functioning, metabolic variables, and inflammatory markers). Dietitian coaching and meals provided.
- A naturalistic treatment and follow along study to further understanding of best practice psychiatric and psychosocial treatments and clinical tools for youth ages 9-21 with pediatric BSDs.
For both of the CBN studies noted above, youth will complete an eligibility screening that includes a comprehensive diagnostic interview with feedback, recommendations, and referrals for families. If youth qualify to continue in the study, they will have access to a psychiatrist with expertise in BSDs. Youth and parents (required for minors) will be asked to participate in multiple follow up research visits (some in person, some telehealth) including clinical interviews, questionnaires, and blood draws. Compensation for research visits is provided. For more information contact CHAMP (310-825-2836) or visit our program's and keto study .
The is open to all patients (UCLA and non-UCLA affiliated). Most insurance plans are accepted.
Please call us at (310) 825-2836 for an appointment.
Services:
- Psychological Assessment (includes assessments for ALL major psychiatric disorders)
- Medication Consultation and ongoing medication management
- Family-focused therapy
- Group or individual therapy (when available)
- Referrals for specialized procedures and/or ongoing care
- Research participation
Who We See
Our clients are between the ages of 7 and 17 and their families. They come from all walks of life and all parts of the state. Our clientele is racially and ethnically diverse. Therapy for Spanish-speaking families can be facilitated through UCLA translation services.
We offer telehealth (Zoom platform) visits as well as in-person visits, by mutual agreement. Your confidentiality is assured.
When we see families, we recommend that all members who live with the child or teen attend the sessions, whether these are parents, siblings, grandparents, or other relatives. We want to involve all family members who see the child regularly and especially those who have a role in his or her care and upbringing.
Program Schedule
Generally, Mondays from 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. for diagnostic evaluations, medication management sessions and family therapy. Specialty care with our Max Gray Fellows can also be arranged on other days of the week.
Contact Us
Appointment line:
Address: 760 Westwood Plaza A-Floor, South Corridor Los Angeles, CA 90024