Zits, periods, drugs, sex and rock and roll
These are among the challenges teens face during adolescence.
CharlRe' Slaughter-Atiemo, MD, FAAP
General pediatrician
Having medical providers who understand the medical and emotional challenges teens often encounter can make a significant difference.
That's why Dr. CharlRe’ Slaughter-Atiemo has created a specialized program for teens and young adults aged 12-25. Our goal is to offer top-notch medical care throughout this crucial transition from childhood to adulthood. We emphasize respecting individuality, supporting both physical and emotional growth, and educating and empowering teens to take ownership of their healthcare and life choices.
Conditions We Treat
We provide comprehensive care for a wide range of conditions. Some of the conditions we treat include:
- Acne treatment
- Contraception
- Delayed puberty
- Eating and feeding disorders
- Gender identity and sexual development concerns
- Menstrual cycle issues (absent, irregular, heavy, or infrequent menstrual bleeding)
- Mood disorders (including anxiety and depression)
- Obesity prevention and management
- Primary adolescent/young adult well-care visits, including check-ups, sports physicals, and immunizations
- Reproductive health counseling (pregnancy diagnosis and referral)
- Sexually transmitted disease screening and treatment
- Substance abuse counseling
- Tobacco cessation treatment and/or referral
- Transgender care and transition planning referral
- Young men’s health services
Don’t see a specific condition listed? Please call us for more information.
The Adolescent Visit
Annual well checks during adolescence are crucial. While adolescents are generally healthy, they undergo significant physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes. Unlike younger children who benefit from parental presence for reassurance and medical history, adolescents often require private time with their healthcare provider.
During the visit, the healthcare provider will initially meet with both the parent and teen together to discuss any shared concerns. Following this discussion, the parent will be asked to step out of the exam room to allow the provider to address adolescent-specific issues and conduct a physical examination. This private time ensures adolescents have an opportunity to discuss personal concerns and maintain privacy during their examination.
We understand that some parents may feel uneasy about this private consultation, fearing their teen may divulge secrets. However, it is essential for teenagers to cultivate their own relationship and trust with their healthcare provider, distinct from their parents' relationship with the provider.
Many parents appreciate our dedication to addressing adolescent issues thoughtfully and respectfully.
Topics We Discuss
We aim to empower our teens to advocate for themselves, preparing them for a successful transition to adult healthcare.
Topics covered in our discussions include personal safety, mental health, smoking, alcohol and drug use, sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, reproductive health, contraception, nutrition, exercise, sports, making informed choices, and social issues. These conversations are kept confidential unless there is a risk to the adolescent or they give permission to involve their parent.
Research indicates that maintaining confidentiality is crucial for teens' trust when the shared goal between parents and providers is the adolescent's health and safety. However, our providers are transparent about the need to break confidentiality if the teen discloses information suggesting they are in danger.