From Teen to Adult — When to Transition to Adult Psychiatry Care

For adolescents receiving psychiatric care, the transition into adulthood can bring some challenges. Many teens and their parents are unsure when to transition into adult psychiatric services, especially if they are planning to change practitioners at that time. 

Our team at Lifespan Psychiatry & Wellness Center understands that there are questions surrounding this important transition. We’re happy to share some information on how to manage the shift into adult services. 

The transition into adulthood doesn’t happen on a schedule

Let’s begin by establishing the fact that transitioning from adolescence to adulthood isn’t something you can mark on a schedule. Everyone moves through this transition on their own timeline, regardless of whether they have specific mental health needs. 

While our society defines adulthood as starting when a person reaches the age of 18, the reality is that some kids get there sooner than others, and there is no pace that is better or worse than another. 

So, the first thing to remember about transitioning from teen to adult psychiatric services is that there is no set date for the process to play out. 

Shifting into adult psychiatric services is a process

Very often, the people most focused on moving from adolescent psychiatry care to adult services are the parents of the patient. After all, parents love their child and want the best support possible as they move into adulthood. 

Teens can also become concerned about moving into adult services. This is especially true when they need to switch to a completely different practice where they face a new office environment, new staff members, and a great deal of uncertainty. 

That’s why the transition should be planned well in advance. Some experts recommend beginning 1-2 years prior to the shift. During this time, teens can begin to take on more responsibility for their own care, a process that is highly individualized. 

For example, teens who are nearing adulthood can begin to create a plan for how to explain their diagnosis when necessary to teachers, caregivers, and potential employers. They might begin to learn more about their health insurance coverage options and how to book their own visits, manage prescriptions, and so on. 

Learning how to balance autonomy with the need to retain essential mental health services is important, especially as young people begin to take the reins in guiding their own lives. 

How Lifespan Psychiatry & Wellness Center handles transitions

Our team understands the importance of the transition from adolescent care to adult care. That’s part of why we’ve shaped our practice around the concept of lifespan psychiatry and offer care across all phases of life. 

When you work with therapists who deliver psychiatric services to people of all ages, the transition into adult services is often easier. Young people don’t have to go through the stress and uncertainty of getting to know a new practitioner or learning the ins and outs of a new office. 

Our therapists work with the adolescents in their care to identify when they’re ready to begin transitioning into adult services and create a treatment plan that addresses that shift. The process is seamless and allows teens the time and grace needed when roadblocks arise or progress changes pace. 

We’re here for you, no matter where you are in your mental health journey. Our providers find the transition into adulthood to be an exciting time filled with possibilities and strive to help young patients view the process in a positive and collaborative manner. 

If you have questions or concerns about transitioning between teen and adult psychiatric care for yourself or a loved one, we encourage you to reach out to our office. 

Schedule a visit online or by phone to meet with a therapist and explore the options when it comes to entering a new phase of treatment at Lifespan Psychiatry & Wellness Center.