expert type icon EXPERT

Jonathan Shepherd

Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr. Jonathan Shepherd practices Child & Adolescent Psychiatry in Woodlawn, MD. Dr. Shepherd evaluates patients throughout childhood and adolescence using many different procedures, in order to determine what treatments must be carried out in order to properly assess their symptoms. Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists are trained and certified to administer psychotherapy, medication, and many other means of treatment. Dr. Shepherd seeks to improve each patients quality of life.
20 years Experience
Jonathan Shepherd
  • Woodlawn, MD
  • University of Illinois College of Medicine
  • Accepting new patients

What types of disorders are best treated by CBT?

1. Anxiety Disorders
2. Mood Disorders

How to cope with not having a real graduation?

First, I'm so sorry that you were unable to participate in graduation ceremonies this year. You have every right to be sad, angry, and disappointed. Here's how you can celebrate: READ MORE
First, I'm so sorry that you were unable to participate in graduation ceremonies this year. You have every right to be sad, angry, and disappointed.
Here's how you can celebrate: 1. create your own graduation ceremony. Invite your families to participate. 2. have a drive-by graduation salute
3. host a virtual graduation party on a streaming platform.

Yes, it's different but be thankful you accomplished your goal of completing another cycle of education.

Can a 14 year old be prescribed antidepressants?

Absolutely! Yes. Antidepressants can be safely used in children and adolescents.

How to help child who is having trouble sleeping?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many people are having sleep problem--our sleeping patterns are off. Here's what I suggest: 1. stick to a consistent bedtime even though the child READ MORE
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many people are having sleep problem--our sleeping patterns are off. Here's what I suggest: 1. stick to a consistent bedtime even though the child is not attending school 2. wake the child up at the same time each day as if he or she is attending school 3. shut down all devices and TV one hour prior to bedtime 4. provide a relaxing environment to allow his / her senses to shut down. Good and bad sleep habits have to develop so consistency plays a big part.

How to help a child having trouble sleeping because of all the changes?

It's normal for a child and even adults to have a shift in sleep patterns when a crisis occurs. Most times the sleep difficulty is due to anxiety. Here are some things to keep READ MORE
It's normal for a child and even adults to have a shift in sleep patterns when a crisis occurs. Most times the sleep difficulty is due to anxiety. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Maintain consistent bed times even when schools are not in session.
2. Remove all devices from the child and bedroom 30 minutes prior to the designated bedtime.
3. A warm bath, soothing music, and even reading to your child can be helpful in relaxing you and the child.
4. Model anxiety under control. Children will emulate their parents so make sure you model what you want them to do.

What is the most common anxiety disorder in children?

The most common mental health disorder in children under the age of 12 is anxiety. Anxiety disorders seen in children include: Separation Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety READ MORE
The most common mental health disorder in children under the age of 12 is anxiety. Anxiety disorders seen in children include: Separation Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Social Anxiety/Phobia.

Can personality disorders be cured?

Personality disorders can be very difficult to treat, requiring intense individual therapy modalities. Psychotropic medications may be necessary if there are symptoms that do READ MORE
Personality disorders can be very difficult to treat, requiring intense individual therapy modalities. Psychotropic medications may be necessary if there are symptoms that do not allow the person to function properly.

Is depression a serious condition?

In one word, Absolutely! Depression is the #1 illness in the world and leads to several traumatic consequences. Depression may result in suicide, chronic fatigue, sleep and appetite READ MORE
In one word, Absolutely! Depression is the #1 illness in the world and leads to several traumatic consequences. Depression may result in suicide, chronic fatigue, sleep and appetite changes, poor concentration, weight changes.

Is ADHD a serious condition?

A person diagnosed with ADHD means that the person is unable to function properly in most environments due to hyperactivity, inattention / poor concentration, and impulsivity. READ MORE
A person diagnosed with ADHD means that the person is unable to function properly in most environments due to hyperactivity, inattention / poor concentration, and impulsivity. It can be a serious condition because it can impede a child’s ability to function properly while in school. Treatment options include medication management (stimulants, non-stimulants) and behavioral management through therapy.

When should a person with depression seek help?

Yes, please take your child to be evaluated/assessed by a mental health clinician and/or psychiatrist. Suicidal thoughts are only one of 8 symptoms that defines if a person has READ MORE
Yes, please take your child to be evaluated/assessed by a mental health clinician and/or psychiatrist. Suicidal thoughts are only one of 8 symptoms that defines if a person has depression.

Can I do anything to stop my child from wetting the bed?

1. Assess if the child is anxious about something (a situation, person, etc.). 2. Establish a cut-off time that the child is able to drink liquids. 3. A bell and pad is effective. READ MORE
1. Assess if the child is anxious about something (a situation, person, etc.).

2. Establish a cut-off time that the child is able to drink liquids.

3. A bell and pad is effective.

Why is my child all of a sudden losing interest in his schoolwork?

1. Schedule a meeting with the child’s teacher to assess if he/she notices any changes and/or deficiencies in the child’s work. 2. Ask the child if there is any person or situation READ MORE
1. Schedule a meeting with the child’s teacher to assess if he/she notices any changes and/or deficiencies in the child’s work.

2. Ask the child if there is any person or situation that makes him feel uncomfortable.

My son has Asperger's Syndrome. How is it treated?

Greetings! Asperger's Syndrome is now called high functioning Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Yes, it is true that treatment varies from person to person. You should seek out resources READ MORE
Greetings! Asperger's Syndrome is now called high functioning Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Yes, it is true that treatment varies from person to person. You should seek out resources and vouchers for autistic children.