Empowering Children’s Voices in Mental Health Care: Dr. Xuejing Li’s Innovative Approach
Dr. Xuejing Li, medical director of outpatient behavioral health at Seven Hills Foundation, emphasizes the importance of understanding children and their families in psychiatric care. She manages a case load of 120 children and focuses on their environments. Li believes that to support children effectively, caregivers must be involved. She sees children’s challenges as reflections of family difficulties, such as generational trauma.
Li prioritizes listening to children’s voices in their care. She avoids dictating treatment plans, preferring to let children guide their own care. She adapts her medication management approach and educates families on medication risks and benefits. Her philosophy is that if a child is not ready to accept medication, it won’t be effective.
From July 2020 to June 2022, Li led a bridge clinic for urgent psychiatric care for children. She is now preparing to launch a new urgent care clinic for expedited psychiatric assessments.
Li mentors medical students from UMass Chan Medical School, providing them with hands-on experiences in community mental health. She engages students in discussions and values their input.
What are the key factors that influence children’s mental health according to Dr. Xuejing Li?
Interview with Dr. Xuejing Li: Understanding the Complexities of Children’s Mental Health
By Mica Kanner-Mascolo, Staff Writer
In a field where understanding and compassion are paramount, Dr. Xuejing Li serves as a beacon of hope for children facing psychiatric challenges. As the medical director of outpatient behavioral health at Seven Hills Foundation, she emphasizes the critical role of family dynamics in a child’s mental health journey. We had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Li about her approach to psychiatric care, her recent initiatives, and her vision for the future of child mental health.
Mica Kanner-Mascolo (MK): Dr. Li, your approach to psychiatric care for children places a significant emphasis on family involvement. Can you elaborate on why you believe this is so important?
Dr. Xuejing Li (DL): Absolutely, Mica. Children don’t exist in a vacuum; their behaviour and mental health challenges often reflect the dynamics within their families. I manage a caseload of about 120 children, and I have observed that understanding their environments—especially the familial context—is crucial for effective care. Caregivers’ involvement isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential in helping children navigate their challenges.
MK: You’ve mentioned that you prioritize listening to children’s voices in their care. How does this impact your treatment plans?
DL: Children are the experts of their own experiences. I avoid dictating treatment plans; instead, I let them guide their own care. When children have a say in their treatment, they are more likely to feel empowered and engaged. For example, when it comes to medication management, I tailor my approach and ensure families are educated about the risks and benefits. If a child is not ready to accept medication, then it simply won’t be effective.
MK: You have a rich history of providing urgent psychiatric care for children. Can you tell us about the bridge clinic you led from July 2020 to June 2022?
DL: The bridge clinic was a pivotal initiative that allowed us to provide urgent psychiatric assessments and interventions at a critical time for many children. It was about meeting the immediate needs of families facing crises. Now, I’m excited to launch a new urgent care clinic that will facilitate expedited psychiatric assessments, which I believe will further reduce wait times and improve access to care.
MK: In addition to your clinical work, you mentor medical students. How do you integrate their input into your practice?
DL: Mentoring students from UMass Chan Medical School is an enriching experience for me. I involve them in discussions around community mental health, and I always welcome their insights. This collaboration not only enhances their learning but also introduces fresh perspectives into our practice, which ultimately benefits our clients.
MK: You mentioned finding motivation in your clients’ resilience. Can you expand on that?
DL: The resilience I witness in children is incredibly inspiring. They possess an innate desire for a brighter future, which fuels my commitment to providing compassionate care. My approach is deeply rooted in fostering that hope and potential, ensuring that each child feels seen and supported in their journey.
MK: What do you envision for the future of child mental health care?
DL: I hope to see a shift toward more integrated care approaches that consider the holistic needs of children and families. As mental health continues to gain recognition as a priority, it’s imperative that we focus on building stronger support systems and promoting early interventions. Together, we can create pathways for children to thrive amidst the challenges they face.
Dr. Xuejing Li’s insights illuminate the essential connection between children and their families in mental health care. Her dedication to listening to young voices and involving caregivers reflects a progressive approach that prioritizes resilience and holistic well-being in a field that is continuously evolving.
Li finds motivation in her clients’ resilience. She believes children want the best for their futures, which shapes her approach to care.
Mica Kanner-Mascolo is a staff writer focusing on healthcare and diversity issues.