Expanding access to pediatric mental health care: Q&A with Justine Larson, MD

Justine Larson, MD, recently joined Children’s National Hospital as the new associate chief of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. A board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent mental health, Dr. Larson has extensive experience in clinical practice, research and policy development. Her work focuses on improving systems of care, integrating behavioral health and expanding mental health services for vulnerable populations.

In this interview, Dr. Larson shares her journey into pediatric psychiatry, her passion for increasing access to mental health care and her goals for advancing services at Children’s National.

Q: Why did you choose Children’s National?

A: I chose Children’s National because I see an incredible opportunity to provide high-quality behavioral healthcare to children, especially in the DMV. A big part of my career and passion revolves around increasing access to care for underserved children. Children’s National offers a platform where I can make a significant impact, especially given its potential to create a broad footprint in this crucial area — that was the primary reason behind my decision.

Q: How did you decide to pursue a career in pediatric psychiatry?

A: I initially thought I would pursue OB/GYN because I was drawn to the field’s focus on women’s advocacy, but I realized I wanted to develop deep, long-term relationships with my patients. Psychiatry allowed me to do that, as it offers a unique combination of sociocultural, philosophical, psychological and biological variables, variables that interact in ways I find fascinating.

Additionally, my connection to children’s health was solidified years ago when my son, now 16, was hospitalized at Children’s National for 10 days as an infant. He had RSV and was in the ICU, and I’ve always felt that Children National saved his life. That positive association with the hospital played a role in my decision as well.

Q: What are some of your goals while serving as associate chief of psychiatry at Children’s?

A: One of my primary goals is to explore and implement alternative models of care that can help more children access mental health services. With the nationwide shortage of mental health providers, particularly pediatric psychiatrists and therapists, it’s crucial to think outside the box. I’m particularly interested in developing care models that provide services in pediatric settings or schools. Increasing access to care is at the core of my focus and interest as I work toward making these services more available to those in need.

Q: How do you spend your free time when you aren’t at the hospital or with patients?

A: Outside of work, I spend a lot of time with my family. I have three children — an 18-year-old, a 16-year-old and a 7-year-old — and a Great Pyrenees dog. My son, the one who was hospitalized as a baby, is really passionate about music. He plays guitar and piano, and I love supporting him by attending his shows and encouraging his musical journey. My oldest son is passionate about the outdoors and dreams of becoming a park ranger, so he often drags the family on hiking and camping trips, which I thoroughly enjoy. My littlest one loves nature and reading. My husband is a health economist, but we try not to talk shop too much!