The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it.
— Peter Pan, J.M. Barrie
 
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Welcome

This is the website for Dr Kumaran Gohula Thevan, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I am a Consultant within the NHS in Windsor, Slough and Maidenhead. In addition to my clinical role, I am also the Named Doctor for Safeguarding for Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

I also see patients privately and welcome enquiries. In addition, I work closely with schools and professional staff to widen knowledge regarding common neurodevelopmental disorders and mental illness, as well as undertake charitable projects. I am the Visiting Psychiatrist for Harrow School

 
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Consultations

What to Expect

Children and their families are often understandably nervous about a meeting with a psychiatrist. This might be because they are worried about what I might say, or they may be apprehensive about discussing difficult feelings. I am very much aware of this and always work hard to put everyone at ease. From my point of view, I am here to help and there is no judgement or reason to be embarrassed. My role is to use my knowledge of neurology, child development, psychology and mental health to make sense of the current problems and find a way forward. 

First consultations usually last up to 75 minutes, and we will go through the current difficulties, the family history and the developmental history. The appointment will involve talking only, there are no tests.  At the end of the appointment, I will feedback my impression and summarise what I think would help, based on best evidence based practice. I aim to provide full information to help you and your child understand diagnoses and treatment options; so you can make an informed decision about what to do next. You will receive a report summarisng what we have talked about with further resources and recommendations.

One condition that I see most is ADHD. A diagnosis requires further information from school and I use questionnaires (and possibly a computer test) that can reinforce my impression. I confirm diagnoses in the form of a separate ADHD report, which takes you through the collateral information and is useful for schools. Once this is done, I will meet you and your child for a follow up to discuss treatment options in detail. 

Many conditions require follow up or liaison with the school, which can be offered. Follow up sessions last up to 45 minutes. If medication is required, I will take you through the evidence behind their use, possible adverse effects and help you come to a decision regarding their use. I provide prescriptions for all drugs but I am happy to hand over that to your GP as well.

A parent or responsible adult will always accompany the child or teenager to the appointment with the rare exception of some teenagers over sixteen who choose to be seen alone. I always encourage the involvement of parents where possible. Children and young people always have the option to spend part of our meeting without their parents present.

 

 

Clinic Address

Please note that all consultations will be virtual