Why Early Support Matters
Damian Gwak shares how his background in pediatrics led him to child psychiatry, and why early intervention can change a child’s developmental path. He sees the field as a high-impact way to combine fun, challenge, and long-term support.
Medication Decisions Start with Information
Dr. Damian Gwak outlines how he approaches medication consultations, with a focus on educating families about risks, benefits, and options. His goal is to support parents and kids in making informed choices, not to prescribe by default.
Helping Kids Name Their Strengths
Child psychiatrist Damian Gwak talks about how identifying a child’s natural interests and strengths can guide treatment. He notes that even adults struggle with this, so part of his work is helping kids see what they’re already good at.
Why We’re Private Pay
Drs. Rebecca Cho and Brandon Gimbel explain why North Star operates outside of insurance network, semphasizing that private pay allows for longer appointments, better communication, and the kind of comprehensive care that child psychiatry truly requires.
Kids Deserve Agency
Dr. Rebecca Cho shares how she builds trust with young patients, by using humor, curiosity, and a clear message that their voice matters. Even when parents make the final call, she ensures kids feel respected and involved in their own care.
Why Dr. Rebecca Cho Chose Child Psychiatry
Dr. Rebecca Cho shares how her early interest in pediatrics and her discovery of psychiatry came together, leading her to specialize in child and adolescent mental health through additional fellowship training.
Easing Apprehension About Psychiatry
Dr. Rebecca Cho reflects on the common fears parents and kids have when starting psychiatric care, especially around medication and past negative experiences. She emphasizes her focus on building trust early and making care feel collaborative, not clinical.
Why Collaboration Matters
Dr. Rebecca Cho explains how she partners with therapists, pediatricians, and schools to ensure kids get consistent, comprehensive care. Because psychiatrists see patients less frequently, collaboration helps fill in the picture, and supports better treatment decisions.
Psychiatry vs. Psychotherapy
Dr. Rebecca Cho breaks down the difference between psychiatry and therapy, from medical training to treatment roles. She explains how psychiatrists focus on medication, while psychotherapy can take many forms and be provided by a range of clinicians.