The Current State of Pediatric Functional Neurological Disorder Treatment in the United States

Background

Pediatric functional neurological disorders (FNDs) are common but grossly under-researched. This survey study aims to define the current landscape of pediatric FND treatment in the United States, identifying treatment programs, care team composition, treatment approaches, and aftercare management.

Methods

The Functional Neurological Disorder Society (FNDS) Pediatric Special Interest Group (SIG), a diverse set of clinician and caregiver stakeholders, collected information on available treatment programs in the United States via survey. Current programs were identified through the FNDS Pediatric SIG and FND Hope's provider registry.

Results

Thirty-nine care team members from 24 health care centers yielded 31 unique FND treatment settings. Centers existed in 16 states, concentrated in the Midwest and Southern regions. Outpatient settings (62%) were more prevalent than inpatient. A psychologist (PhD/PsyD) was the most common clinician (52%) with dedicated time to treat FNDs. Most settings accepted ages six to 21 (55%) and treated all FND symptoms (77%). A spectrum of treatment approaches was endorsed with the most common being cognitive behavioral therapy (77%) and personalized approaches (58%). A biopsychosocial approach was evident, with most settings reporting active involvement with school (97%) and caregivers (94%). Most settings (74%) encouraged treatment re-engagement when needed with no strict time limits. All respondents provided aftercare recommendations or referrals.

Conclusions

Pediatric FND treatment is available across the United States, but there is high variability in care team membership, treatment approach, and aftercare management. Future research is necessary to develop effective and sustainable treatment to improve access for this population.