In an effort to bridge gaps in youth mental health care, Pathstone has introduced a Lifestyle Paediatric Practice that integrates evidence-based strategies with everyday wellness habits
NEWS RELEASE
PATHSTONE MENTAL HEALTH
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Pathstone Mental Health is introducing an important new resource for families: the Paediatric Lifestyle Medicine Practice, led by Dr. Richa Agnihotri. Dr. Agnihotri’s practice represents a community value-add, expanding Pathstone’s continuum of care and offering families another way to access timely, holistic support for their children’s mental health and well-being.
“The Lifestyle Paediatric Practice is designed to give kids the best start possible, helping families address everyday factors that directly impact mental health, behaviour, and learning.”
Operating every Wednesday and Thursday out of Pathstone, the practice integrates mental health expertise with Lifestyle Medicine. Dr. Agnihotri’s practice can be accessed through a referral from primary care for children under the age of 12. Dr. Agnihotri brings an evidence-based, patient-centred approach that supports healthy behaviour change. Families will work with Dr. Agnihotri to build individualized plans that align with their child’s unique needs and goals, while addressing barriers that may get in the way. Referrals can be for things such as assessment for ASD or ADHD, anxiety, developmental trauma or developmental concerns, selective eating, functional constipation, problem screen use, or sleep concerns.
The practice is grounded in six key pillars of health that directly impact children and youth’s ability to thrive at school and at home:
- Restorative sleep
- Physical activity
- Nutrition
- Stress management
- Social connectedness
- Avoidance of risky behaviours and substances
Pathstone Mental Health: Pathstone serves as Niagara’s lead agency for child and youth mental health, offering a wide range of programs including walk-in clinics, individual/group therapy, day treatment, in home services and live-in treatment and supports. The Lifestyle Paediatric Practice adds a new layer of care, complementing existing services and giving families tools to build resilience and long-term wellness.
“This practice bridges an important gap,” explained Dr. Agnihotri. “By focusing on the everyday pillars of health, we can help families create sustainable changes that improve not only mental health but also physical and emotional well-being. It is about equipping children with the foundation they need to succeed in school and in life.”
Accessing the Clinic: Families can learn more about the Lifestyle Paediatric Practice online. A referral must be made through primary care. Referral forms can be found on Pathstone’s website.
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