Victims of child abuse and children placed in foster care experience complex medical and mental health issues.

Some are the results of pre-natal drug and alcohol exposure. Some are the result of trauma, genetics, or environmental factors. In certain cases, traditional psychological therapy may not be sufficient to keep a child safe and to help them thrive.

VIP has a licensed psychiatrist on staff to consult with doctors, clinical therapists and psychologists on the need for medication for some children. Medication is provided for appropriate clients following referral to VIP's psychiatrist by the treating therapist through written and verbal case presentation.

Medication services are provided to clients in support of their overall objectives for their physical and mental health.

Before medication is prescribed, the child along with their caretaker is seen for a psychiatric evaluation. If medication is indicated, the caretaker is educated about diagnosis, benefits and potential adverse effects of the medication. On a monthly basis, the psychiatrist will re-evaluate and monitor both the need for and use of the medication.

Patients will be given a list of MediCal-participating pharmacies, and will only be issued prescriptions for limited quantities of medication, so as to limit the risk of abuse. The client must have proof of Medical Exam clearance or document that states a Medical Exam was offered but refused before Medication Support Services are started.

VIP believes in responsibily and carefully monitoring the prescribing of any psychotropic medications for children, and that such medications should only be used in cases of medical necessity.