SERVICES
Behavioral and Developmental Pediatrics
1346 Foothill Blvd., # 301
La Canada, CA 91011
818.790.1587
Descanso Medical Center
for Development and Learning
Behavioral and Developmental Pediatrics
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Descanso Medical Center for Development and Learning (DMCDL)
provides consultation and treatment in the following areas:
- Adjustment Disorders
- Anxiety - childhood and adolescent
- Attentional Problems (ADD/ADHD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Behavioral Problems - Oppasitional, defiant and disruptive behavior
- Depression - childhood and adolescent
- Developmental Assessment of infants, toddlers and school-aged children
- Learning Problems
- Medication Management
- Mood Disorders
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Pre-School problems - separation anxiety, behavior problems, tantrums
- Sleep problems
- Tic Disorders
Our evaluation procedure is a generally a three- or four-part process. Depending on your child's needs and other professional evaluations, this approach may vary. We will probably not duplicate any previous evaluations. (Please provide us with copies of any outside evaluations prior to this appointment.)
1. Intake Appointment - Your first visit is an in-depth intake interview to discuss your concerns about your child The doctor will be asking a series of questions looking for "red flags" in a broad number of areas - from learning strengths/challenges to questions relating to attention, anxiety, mood, social and/or behavioral issues.
You may be given questionnaires to be completed by you (parents), the child and the child's teacher. The completed questionnaires must be returned to the office at least 3 days prior to the Summary appointment. These questionnaires will provide us with a broad base of information for the next step. Some evaluations may be redirected after the initial interview, depending on your child's requirements. 2. Comprehensive Neurological Exam - A thorough medical examination is performed as a part of the evaluation to determine possible medical causes for symptoms and areas of difficulties. Diet, sleep patterns and medical information will be reviewed. This evaluation includes a thorough history, physical examination. The doctor may order appropriate laboratory tests at this time.
3. *Test of Variables of Attention (T.O.V.A.) - A continuous-performance computer-based analysis developed at the University of Minnesota that can help demonstrate specific patterns associated with attention, reaction time, impulsivity and distractibility. Both a visual and an auditory test will be performed. Visit the TOVA web site for more information on the test (http://www.hometova.com)
*Please note that this test is generally not administered to children under 5 years of age. This test may not be ordered for all evalautions (e.g. behavioral/developmental). Depending on the type of evaluation and the presenting concerns the doctor may recommend other/additional testing. 4. Summary Visit - We will share the findings of the above assessment with you and will discuss your child's strengths and weaknesses. We will also provide you with help establishing educational, behavioral and medical strategies to improve your child's functioning, both in school and at home.
Please contact our office for evaluation information.
