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What is a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician?

A Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician specializes in the treatment of neurodevelopmental, behavioral, social  and emotional problems in children and adolescents. A D-B Pediatrician has subspecialty training and  certification in Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, in addition to General Pediatrics. 

 

How is this different from a visit to my regular Pediatrician?

Dr. Marcou does not replace your regular Pediatrician and does not provide general Pediatric services (immunizations, sick visits, etc). She will address the specific developmental and behavioral problems which are a concern. She will communicate with your regular doctor and any involved specialists as needed. 

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How will my visit at this office differ from a Child Psychiatrist or Child Neurologist?

There is overlap in the services provided by a Developmental and Behavioural Pediatrician, a Child Neurologist and a Child Psychiatrist. All three specialists treat some of the same populations of children, for example Autism, ADHD, developmental delays, and undiagnosed disruptions in development or behaviour. However there are exceptions to some of the children each specialists treats, and there are differences in their clinical approaches. In some cases two or even all three sub specialists may form the best treatment team for a particular patient depending upon the problem. Children with brain tumours, seizures, or primary neurological conditions should be treated by a Child Neurologist. Children with symptoms of schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar disorder or major depressive illness should have the input of a Child Psychiatrist. However, in many of the developmental problems of childhood and adolescence such as ADHD, learning disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Developmental Delay, Genetic Syndromes, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Language Disorders, Disruptive Behaviors, and abnormal behaviors a Developmental and Behavioural Pediatrician is able to treat the child and family without the input of other specialists.

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What many families enjoy about Developmental and Behavioural Pediatricians is the extensive foundation in Pediatrics gives the physician a strong basis for understanding the developmental and dynamic nature of many problems of childhood. Additionally, the therapeutic interventions recommended are broad, encompassing a wide variety of treatments and disciplines with medication being only one component.

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Who should be seen for a Consultation?

Any child from birth to young adulthood, who is not developing typically, who is diagnosed with a specific neurological or psychological problem, or who is experiencing emotional, behavioural, or learning problems is appropriate for a consultation. In some cases a child may not have a specific diagnosis, but the parents are just worried about the child and need help understanding if there is a real problem or if the concern is within normal limits.

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What types of patients are not appropriate for a Consultation ?

Children or adolescents who are actively suicidal, require a psychiatric hospitalization, have a history of multiple prior psychiatric hospitalizations, or are experiencing seizures should be seen by an appropriate sub specialist. Dr. Marcou  does not treat substance abuse or eating disorders both of which require highly specialized multi-disciplinary treatment centers. 

 

How does a consultation work?

Consultation will cater to the individual situation and needs of a patient.  Consultation may include: extensive history taking with parents, review of previous assessments,  in depth neurodevelopmental testing, interview with patient, classroom observations, appropriate medical testing, meetings with school or other personnel and report preparation.

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If a patient has had extensive previous assessment and primarily requires ongoing care and management, care will include review of previous records, and in depth consultation with the patient and family. 

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What are the unique benefits of the Consultation?

The developmental paediatric consultation is an attempt to help parents “fill in the gaps” in the medical care of their children with developmental, behavioural and learning difficulties. Dr. Marcou will help families determine if assessments are complete and thorough and will make specific recommendations for further evaluations only if they are truly needed. She will also help to ensure that no underlying problems have been overlooked. Progress is monitored carefully so that new concerns can be anticipated and mitigated. 

 

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