Child Psychiatrist Gayani DeSilva helps teens — and their parents — stop addiction and depression before it starts
A note from Hope, publisher, Inkandescent Kids magazine — I am honored to introduce you all to Dr. Gayani DeSilva, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, Gayani obtained her medical training at Albany Medical College before interning at Brown University and doing a residency at Harvard. She has won numerous awards for her insights and work, including helping children in juvenile justice centers and foster care.
“Much of that work consists of understanding the complex array of needs of adolescent and young adult criminal and violent offenders,” Gayani explains. “I work to understand the interplay between mental illness, societal factors, and interpersonal issues.”
Based on her experience and research, she has so far written two books (see below) that provide insight for parents hoping to help depressed tweens and keep their children from suffering from addiction.
“I am dedicated to improving the health and wellness of children, and also the whole family,” says the mother of a son who practices in Laguna Beach, CA. “Straight talk and practical expertise are my tools. “To understand the deeper needs of a child, a parent can better support them as they mature.”
If there’s ever a time when more parents need advice on how to keep kids mentally safe and well,