Pediatric & Adolescent Behavioral Health and Psychiatry

Children's Hospitals - Behavioral Health - 2025 - 2026

Helping Your Child Heal, Grow and Thrive

Is your child experiencing emotional or behavioral changes that feel unusual or hard to manage? Whether you’ve recently noticed a shift in their mood or they’ve already been diagnosed with conditions like anxiety, ADHD or depression, we’re here to help.

Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health offers expert, compassionate care for children and teens across New Jersey. Ranked number one in the state for pediatric and adolescent behavioral health by U.S. News & World Report ‘25-’26, we’re here to help your child heal, grow, and thrive.

When to Seek Help: Recognizing Emotional or Behavioral Changes

Every child experiences challenges as they grow. Some are mild and manageable, while others may require more structured support. Identifying concerns early can make a big difference in helping your child feel better and succeed at home, in school and with friends.

Everyday Challenges

These are common concerns that can disrupt daily life but are often manageable with guidance and therapy:

  • Parent-child conflict
  • Trouble making or keeping friendships
  • Difficulty following directions
  • Stress or adjustment issues
Moderate Concerns That May Require Therapy

When emotions or behaviors start interfering with your child’s quality of life, therapy can help:

  • Anxiety: Frequent worry or fear that disrupts daily routines
  • Depression: Ongoing sadness or loss of interest in usual activities
  • Behavioral issues: Defiance, aggression, or acting out
  • Impulse control issues: Trouble managing urges or behaviors
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): Intrusive thoughts or repetitive actions that disrupt daily routines
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Difficulty focusing, sitting still or controlling impulses
Complex Mental Health Needs

Some children need more intensive care to stay safe and feel well:

  • Eating disorders: Challenges with eating, body image and emotional well-being, often requiring multidisciplinary care
  • Panic attacks: Sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart or difficulty breathing
  • Hallucinations (hearing voices): Sensory experiences that are not based on reality
  • Bipolar disorder: Conditions that cause extreme mood swings or unpredictable behavior
  • PTSD (Post-traumatic stress): Emotional and physical responses to a traumatic event
  • Suicidal thoughts or self-harm: Expressions of hopelessness or self-harm, requiring immediate intervention

If you’re concerned, trust your instincts. Our team is here to help guide you and your child toward healing.

Behavioral Health Services Designed for Every Level of Care

Pediatric Behavioral & Psychiatric Care at Hackensack Meridian Health Children's Hospitals

K Hovnanian Children Hospital
K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital
K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital offers specialized pediatric care and surgery, including the state's only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center and over 50 pediatric sub-specialties.
Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital
Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital
NJ's top-ranked children's hospital offers expert pediatric care, advanced treatments, & family-centered services in Hackensack. We provide a wide range of specialties & convenient access.
K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center
1945 Route 33
Neptune, NJ 07753
732-776-4949
Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center
30 Prospect Ave
Hackensack, NJ 07601
551-996-2000

Specialized Pediatric Behavioral Health Programs & Services

Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health offers a comprehensive suite of specialized programs tailored to meet the unique mental health needs of children, teens and families. From early intervention to urgent care, we provide innovative, compassionate support at every level.

Why Families Choose Hackensack Meridian Children's Health for Pediatric Behavioral Health

Your child deserves access to leading pediatric psychiatrists and behavioral health specialists. Choosing Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health for pediatric behavioral health support means you get:

Accessible Care Across New Jersey

With many locations, virtual visits, and unique programs like NJPPC and behavioral health urgent care, we make it easier for families to find the right support when and where they need it.

Support at Every Stage

From managing everyday stress to navigating serious mental health crises, we provide expert care that meets your child’s unique needs all in one health system.

Leading Experts, Recognized Care

Our team of pediatric psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists is backed by the top ranking in New Jersey for pediatric behavioral health by U.S. News and World Report. You can feel confident your child is in compassionate, expert hands.

What Parents Often Ask About Children's Mental Health Support

USNWR Ranked in 5 Specialties
Ranked #1 in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report '25-'26
Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center and K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center are ranked #1 in the state and top 10 in the Mid-Atlantic Region.
Find a Doctor
Our Behavioral Health and Psychiatry Experts
Our pediatric psychiatrists,  psychologists, social workers and pediatricians develop a plan for your child and family. We work together to ensure your child receives the best care.
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