Tools for Talking with Families about Mental Health

Key Tools for Pediatricians in Mental Health Management

Discussing mental health concerns can be challenging for families. Providers need effective tools to approach these conversations with empathy, clarity, and sensitivity, especially when delivering difficult news or addressing stigma. PMHCAs can assist providers in navigating sensitive conversations with families about mental health.


Guiding Pediatricians on How to Structure the Conversation

Introduce the Diagnosis Delivery Framework (D.E.A.R.) Framework. This simple model is used to teach and reinforce effective diagnosis delivery. It helps pediatricians stay grounded and family-centered when discussing mental health outcomes.

D.E.A.R. Framework

  • Describe the concern neutrally
  • Express empathy and validate stress
  • Activate a shared plan for support
  • Reflect back on key steps and offer written takeaways


Sample Script for Training:

"I want to talk through what we are seeing together. Based on your child’s responses and our conversation, I believe they may be experiencing depression. That can be tough to hear. You are not alone, and there are resources we can explore together."

Case Example: Dr. Garcia’s Early Catch

Use this case to model the value of early detection, compassionate communication, and coordinated follow-up.

Patient: Ava, Age 10
Setting: Pediatric well-child visit
Concern: Mom mentions Ava is “not sleeping well” and “seems nervous a lot.”

  • Dr. Garcia administers PSC-17 and GAD-17 → both indicate moderate anxiety
  • She uses a D.E.A.R style script to talk with Ava and Mom
  • Ava shares that she is being bullied and is scared to go to school
  • Dr. Garcia creates a safety plan, gives a school note, and connects with a PMHCA consultant.
  • Referral made to an outpatient therapist with a warm handoff
  • PMHCA helps navigate a language barrier and transportation issues for the first visit.
  • Ava receives support within a week
  • Dr. Garcia later uses the case in a peer learning forum to help others navigate similar school-related anxiety cases

Family-Facing Resources to Share

Encourage pediatricians to provide take-home materials that reinforce next steps and normalize care:

  • Family Mental Health Roadmap
  • FAQ for Parents: What happens after a mental health referral?
  • Explainer One-Pager: Understanding your child's diagnosis

PMHCA Checklist: Family Communication Best Practices

Use the checklist to ensure every pediatric practice has the tools, training, and materials needed to approach family mental health converstations with empathy and clarity.

Download Checklist
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