Why do teenagers make impulsive decisions even when they know better? Dr. Joshua Feder maps the arc of prefrontal cortex maturation and explains how each developmental stage shapes clinical strategy—from parent coaching in early childhood to motivational interviewing with teens and medication tapering as reflective capacity matures.

Five free episodes on the issues that matter most in child and adolescent psychiatry today — from suicide risk in autistic youth to anxiety, sleep, legal systems, and expanding access to care. Hosted by Dr. Joshua Feder and Mara Goverman, LCSW.

A parent sits across from you and asks, "Why can't my child just take the same anxiety medicine that helps me?” Sounds reasonable, but the evidence tells a very different story.

Today’s episode is one we’ve been sitting with for a long time. We’re talking about how to survive psychologically in a world where hatred is persistent, not abstract, not metaphorical but recurring, and sometimes lethal.

Dr. Feder reflects on pediatric depression, seasonal sadness, and the myths around acetaminophen and autism. Plus, what’s next for research on leucovorin in autism—and why clinicians should balance caution with evidence-based optimism.

For years, autism care has centered on one model, but that’s changing. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry just redefined what evidence-based care really means. This shift could transform how we support children and families.