Developmental - Behavioral Pediatrics

Evaluation and  management for children with developmental disabilities and behavioral disorders

For a child with developmental or behavioral issues that make him or her “different” from his or her peers, life can be scary and frustrating. For the parents of that child, obtaining a timely, accurate diagnosis and access to appropriate treatment can be equally frustrating. Fortunately, you have access to a comprehensive team of pediatric developmental and behavioral specialists at The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital.

We evaluate, diagnose, counsel and provide treatment options for children, adolescents and their families with a wide range of developmental and behavioral difficulties including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), delayed development in speech, language, motor skills and thinking ability, and behavioral and developmental issues relating to chronic or disabling illness.

For our patients, we serve as advocates in schools and in the community – and teach parents how to do the same – to ensure that children have access to all the appropriate services and support resources to which they are entitled. Our success in this regard results from the strong, collaborative relationship we have cultivated with Maine’s network of community-based child development and social services.

Our six-member team includes three board-certified  Developmental-Behavioral Pediatricians who are fellowship-trained. A neuropsychologist, clinical psychologist and licensed clinical social worker round out the team..

Because a child’s developmental or behavioral issues cannot be effectively addressed without involving the family, the care we provided is decidedly family-centered. It takes into account each family’s unique dynamics, socioeconomic considerations and cultural sensitivities. We also involve all the other key players in a child’s life such as the primary care physician, teachers, camp counselors or case managers in order to provide the most complete care.

Our developmental and behavioral pediatricians serve on the faculty of Tufts University School of Medicine. They are involved in teaching pediatric residents during their required rotation in Child Development. Family practice residents at Maine Medical Center also rotate through our division. In addition, we are involved in training nurse practitioner students as well as other child development interns.

As teachers of the next generation of physicians and other caregivers, our developmental and behavioral pediatrics specialists remain on the leading edge of their field. Studies show that patients treated at teaching hospitals have better outcomes, in part because physicians who are teaching the next generation of physicians are up to date on the latest treatments, techniques and technology. It also means that more time and consideration are often given to both routine and complex cases as part of the teaching process – ensuring that your child benefits from the most current knowledge and the latest treatment advances.