Case Study: Transitioning from Child to Adult Mental Health Services
Patient Information:
Name: Sofia Vergara
Age: 17 years old
Gender: Female
Ethnicity: Hispanic
Comorbidities: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and mild depression.
Background: Sofia Vergara, a 17-year-old Hispanic female, has been receiving mental health services since she was 12. She was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at the age of 10 and mild depression at 15. Sofia has been regularly attending therapy and has been on a medication regimen that has been adjusted over the years to manage her symptoms.
As she approaches adulthood, Sofia and her family are concerned about the transition from child to adult mental health services. They worry about the continuity of care, changes in her treatment team, and the potential challenges in navigating the adult mental health system.
Sofia's family has been an essential part of her support system, attending therapy sessions when needed and helping her manage her appointments and medications. However, Sofia is becoming increasingly independent and is eager to take more control over her healthcare decisions as she transitions into adulthood.
Current Situation: Sofia's therapist has discussed the upcoming transition and suggested that they begin planning for it early to ensure a smooth changeover. The therapist has mentioned that there may be differences in how care is coordinated, the structure of appointments, and the expectations of Sofia's involvement in her treatment.
Sofia has expressed anxiety about these changes, particularly about potentially losing her current therapist, who she feels very comfortable with. Additionally, she is concerned about how her ADHD might impact her ability to manage appointments and medications independently.
Questions for PMHNP:
Identifying Barriers:
- What are the potential barriers Sofia might face during the transition from child to adult mental health services? Need Assignment Help?
- How might her comorbidities (GAD, ADHD, and mild depression) complicate this transition?
Recommendations for Improvement:
- What strategies can be recommended to Sofia and her family to ease the transition and ensure continuity of care?
- How can Sofia's involvement in her own care be encouraged and supported during this transition?
Family and Support Systems:
- What role should Sofia's family play during the transition to adult mental health services?
- How can the mental health team help prepare the family for this transition?
Therapeutic Relationship:
- How can Sofia's concerns about potentially losing her current therapist be addressed?
- What steps can be taken to help Sofia build a trusting relationship with new providers in the adult mental health system?
Managing Comorbidities:
- What considerations should be made regarding Sofia's ADHD in managing her appointments, medication, and overall treatment plan during the transition?
- How can her treatment plan be adjusted to accommodate these challenges?