[Psychotherapy for children. Institutional management of psychiatric cases in minors]

The history of the approach to children with psychiatric problems is reviewed. The author insists in elaborating a diagnosis based in a clinical history, a physical and neurological examination, and the necessary tests. Factors of importance are: the indirect clinical history, the observation of the child, the first emotional contact with him, the exploring of his fantasies (three wishes) and the observation of his drawings, paintings and models. The child is sent to audiology, phoniatry or neurology specialists if his case requires it. Treatment can include psychiatric medication, psychotherapy or both.