“What is the recommended treatment for childhood schizophrenia?”

Typically, once a child is diagnosed with Schizophrenia, the treatment is a combination of medication, individual and family psychotherapies. I don't treat children in my practice but would recommend the treatment providers you choose specialize in psychosis in children as it is not common. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

Hello, as Schizophrenia is an atypical diagnosis for children, my recommendation is to have a multi-disciplinary workup to rule out other organic and developmental changes. The comprehensive workup would include pediatric neurologist MD, neuro-psychological testing PhD, and a psychiatrist MD. These specialists will give you the most comprehensive diagnostic picture and treatment plan.

Hi, Thank you for your question. There are many different types of therapies to treat schizophrenia in children.
*Cognitive Behavior Therapy* (CBT) can help change thinking and behavior. A therapist will show ways to deal with voices and hallucinations <https://www.webmd.com/schizophrenia/what-are-hallucinations>. With a combination of CBT sessions and medication, the client can eventually tell what triggers their psychotic episodes (times when hallucinations or delusions <https://www.webmd.com/schizophrenia/guide/delusional-disorder> flare-up) and how to reduce or stop them. CBT can help you feel less distressed about your psychotic experiences, feel less depressed and anxious, reduce alcohol and drug use, deal with suicidal thoughts, and overcome feelings of hopelessness.
*Cognitive Enhancement Therapy *(CET) is also called cognitive remediation. It teaches people how to better recognize social cues or triggers, and improve their attention, memory, and ability to organize their thoughts. It combines computer-based brain training
<https://www.webmd.com/news/breaking-news/brain-training/brain-training-promise> and group sessions.
*Psychoeducation* helps people with schizophrenia (and their family) understand the illness. Psychoeducation programs explain symptoms, treatment options, recovery, and services that can help. You can have psychoeducation individually or in groups. It can include written information, videos, websites, meetings, or discussions with your case manager or psychiatrist. Your family can help you understand your diagnosis and support you in your treatment. Family psychoeducation programs help the person with schizophrenia and their family communicate better and solve problems. Family psychoeducation is also good for family members. It can be very upsetting to see someone you love become unwell with schizophrenia.
*Medications* include newer antipsychotic drugs which are also called second-generation or atypical antipsychotics. They’re newer than first-generation drugs. They generally cause fewer side effects, such as repetitive or involuntary movements like eye blinking, than older
antipsychotics. Second-generation antipsychotics work about equally as well as older drugs. The one exception is clozapine, which is effective against schizophrenia that doesn’t respond to other treatments. Living With Schizophrenia
Most people with this condition do get better with treatment and support. Exercise, eat healthy foods, manage your stress, and stay connected with your loved ones. Staying mentally and physically strong can help you feel more in charge of your illness and your life. People with schizophrenia do best if they have:
- medication and psychological treatment together – not just one or the other - medications to manage depression or anxiety, if needed
- education about their illness (individual psychoeducation)
- a supportive partner, family member or friend involved in their care
- access to a 24-hour crisis support
- a mental health professional who takes care of planning and coordinating their individual care (case management)
- support to find and keep a job or continuing education
- somewhere safe and affordable to live
- support to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The main treatments for childhood schizophrenia are:
Medications
Psychotherapy
Life skills training
Hospitalization
Treating Schizophrenia with Therapy:
1) Try cognitive behavior therapy. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is used to help children …
2) Attend family therapy. Family therapy can be helpful to educate members of the family about …
3) Join a support group. A support group can offer a safe place to share with other families...
I suggest you speak to her PCP regarding this matter and seek referrals for further studies and help.

See this link..
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/childhood-schizophrenia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354489