Dr. Amer Smajkic

Chicago Child Psychiatry Associates

After practicing in downtown Chicago for nearly twenty years, Dr. Amer Smajkic is bringing his expertise home to Hinsdale. As a resident of the village for over thirteen years, he always planned to open a local office once his children were older. Now, with one child in college and another soon to follow, he has expanded his practice in the western suburbs. Dr. Smajkic saw a growing need for thoughtful, personalized psychiatric care in a community that deeply values family and well-being.

Dr. Smajkic’s practice offers comprehensive support across all ages, a range that allows him to witness how early development influences adulthood. He finds value in the continuity of this work, noting, “it allows me to see growth over time and truly understand how early experiences shape a person’s later life.” This perspective informs his tailored approach: while child treatment focuses on emotional regulation and caregiver collaboration, his work with adolescents shifts toward balancing independence with family support.

As youth mental health struggles like anxiety and ADHD continue to climb, Dr. Smajkic argues that treating the child in isolation is no longer enough. He attributes these rising rates to social media and pandemic-era stressors, advocating instead for a model that heals the entire household. “Mental health concerns in children and teens often require a family-centered approach,” he explains, “where communication, education, and support are just as important as individual treatment.”

For those unsure when to seek help, Dr. Smajkic suggests watching for signs that interfere with daily functioning, such as persistent sadness, withdrawal, or declining school performance. He emphasizes that families should not wait until a situation feels severe to reach out. “Early intervention can make a meaningful difference and often leads to better outcomes,” says Dr. Smajkic.

His collaborative approach involves working closely with parents, schools, and other healthcare providers to build a consistent network of support. New patients can expect a thoughtful, unhurried first visit focused on building a relationship and a personalized plan for the path forward.