Developmental and Behavioral Medicine

The Developmental and Behavioral Medicine Department specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of developmental and behavioral disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning and Developmental Disabilities, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Sleep Disorders, and other Mood and Behavioral Disorders.

A full neurodevelopmental evaluation will define possible underlying medical etiologies and determine appropriate laboratory studies and evaluations. Treatment plans include extensive recommendations for educational programming, behavioral strategies, and therapies. Follow-up care through the Department of Developmental and Behavioral Medicine provides continuity by addressing specific patient needs in the realms of academic and social development, behavior, sleep, nutrition, and general health, with monitoring of developmental progress, counseling, and continued recommendations for programming, therapies, and home-based interventions.

PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT

Medication can be considered to target symptoms and behaviors that impact function, quality of life, safety, learning, social interactions, and sleep. Targets include ADHD, Anxiety and OCD, and behavioral dysregulation (aggression, tantrums, and self-injurious behaviors). In addition, medications are used to treat depression, irritability, mood instability, and sleep disturbances. When needed, pharmacogenetics is also utilized.

GENETICS AND NEUROLOGY

Many developmental disorders have an underlying medical, neurological, genetic, or metabolic basis. Evaluations consist of a thorough review of medical and family history, a physical examination, and laboratory and imaging studies, if needed, to consider underlying etiologies.

COMPREHENSIVE AND ACCESSIBLE

It is important to take time to talk with and listen to families. Medicine today has evolved into multiple clinicians managing their area of specialty alone, resulting in splintered care. At ICCD, we take the whole person and their family into account and consider their medical and mental health together, which allows for better treatment outcomes. We offer open lines of communication and accessibility to our families.