Monika Roots, MD, FAPA | Source | Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Co-Founder and President at Bend Health
Monika Roots, MD, FAPA
As the Co-Founder and President of Bend Health, Dr. Roots is passionate about improving mental health outcomes and access through innovative solutions and partnerships. She is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, an Adjunct Assistant Professor at University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a Member of the APA Committee on Innovation. She has over 16 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, with a focus on child and adolescent populations.
Dr. Roots has a proven track record of leading and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement evidence-based and user-centric mental health interventions. She has co-founded and served as the VP of Health Services of Teladoc and created this behavioral health line of business, Chief Medical Officer of several behavioral health startups, such as CogCubed, Sanvello, and Chief Psychiatric Officer Psych Hub, where she leveraged her expertise in gamification, telehealth, mental health education and digital therapeutics. She has also contributed to the advancement of the mental health field through her publications, patents, and media appearances. She is a graduate of Carleton College, received her M.D. from University of Sint Eustatius, and completed her residency and fellowship at the University of Minnesota.
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Bend Health
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Co-Founder and President
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Do Your Kids 'Hurkle-Durkle'? What You Should Know About This Latest Trend
The TikTok trend encourages lounging in bed, even sometimes when there are things to do. Experts weigh in on any benefits and downsides.
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Meditation: A Calming Tool for Overstimulated Kids and Parents
Dr. Roots highlights that mindfulness practices, like breathing exercises, can help children manage anxiety. "Mindfulness can help kids and teens more easily switch gears," she notes. Parents modeling mindfulness can foster a calmer home. Starting as young as four, kids can benefit from meditation, though patience is key. Creative techniques can make the practice enjoyable for families. -
Coping with End-of-School-Year Malaise in Kids: Expert Insights
Dr. Roots explains that burnout in kids is common due to stress and monotony. She advises parents to "open conversations, set goals, and maintain routines." Parents should care for themselves to better support their children. Signs of burnout include mood changes and social withdrawal. A mental health day can be beneficial, allowing time for restorative activities like nature walks or art projects. -
AI Chatbots Pose Risks to Teens' Mental Health, Warns Expert
Dr. Monika warns about the risks AI chatbots pose to teens, potentially leading to social withdrawal. Her recent video and LinkedIn post emphasize the need for awareness and caution. As a child psychologist and Bend Health Co-Founder, Dr. Roots offers valuable insights into AI's influence on youth mental health.
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As a mom and child psychiatrist, it's deeply concerning to me that our communities, families, and health system are ill-equipped to support positive mental health development and care. We started Bend because we believe there is a better way that enables access to preventative services in mental health care like we have in primary care today, while also ensuring emergency service support. Our progress is rapid and encouraging, and our team and partners are dedicated to fixing this crisis.
