AACAP CACAP Pediatric Psychopharmacology Update Institute
By Jill Zeigenfus Brafford, AACAP’s Chief of Learning and Strategic Initiatives, United States.
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP)/Canadian Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (CACAP) Pediatric Psychopharmacology Update Institute, held February 2-3, 2025, at the Sheraton New York Times Square, brought together a diverse group of child and adolescent psychiatrists, pediatricians, nurse practitioners, and other mental health providers. The meeting was the first collaborative meeting of its kind between AACAP and CACAP and provided valuable treatment updates from both the United States and Canada, truly sharing the best in research and clinical practice from both countries.
Under the exceptional leadership of co-chairs Adelaide S. Robb, MD, and Roberto B. Sassi, MD, the program successfully delivered insightful, evidence-based content that met its learning objectives. Attendees gained practical guidance on medication management for a range of conditions, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and tics/Tourette’s. The meeting also explored strategies for managing comorbidities and medication side effects, as well as key differences in drug approval processes between the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Health Canada.
Figure 1: Presenters from day one of the Institute: Roberto B. Sassi, MD, AJ Allen, MD, Thomas V. Fernandez, MD, Louise Gallagher, MB, BCh, PhD, Adelaide Robb, MD
With 10 expert-led presentations, the Institute provided attendees with cutting-edge research and clinical recommendations to take back to their practices. The discussions on clinical trial networks and measurement-based care offered valuable perspectives on how treatments evolve and reach general use—bringing new hope to the children, families, and communities we serve.
Figure 2: Presenter: S. Evelyn Stewart, MD
Figure 3: Presenter: Melvin D. Oatis, MD
AACAP’s collaboration with CACAP was particularly meaningful and attendees enjoyed learning together and networking. Overall, the AACAP/CACAP Pediatric Psychopharmacology Update Institute was a productive and valuable gathering. Thank you to all who attended—we look forward to seeing you at future meetings!
This article represents the view of its author(s) and does not necessarily represent the view of the IACAPAP's bureau or executive committee.
