The child may have a hard time adjusting to a new home. The Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessment (see above for more information) helps us understand how we can best support the child. When CANS is combined with a Texas Health Steps medical checkup, we can see a full picture of a child’s strengths and needs. CANS also takes into account your strengths and input. This helps us create the best plan of service for the child and family. 

You will receive a copy of the final assessment and service plan. The service plan may recommend behavioral health services, such as a referral to a therapist. Therapy can address misbehavior, sadness, and anxiety caused by trauma and change of environment. You should try psychotherapy or other forms of behavioral intervention before starting medications. 

A doctor must evaluate the child before prescribing psychotropic medications. It is important to learn about all available treatment options, side effects, and label warnings. However, if a doctor does prescribe a medication, the child should not stop taking it unless advised by a physician. Stopping medications can cause an adverse effect.  

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