Developmental Pediatrician
A developmental pediatrician is a board-accredited medical doctor who has received subspecialty training and certification in developmental-behavioral pediatrics. Such a pediatrician should have five years of practical experience of which at least 50 percent focuses specifically on developmental-behavioral issues. The American Board of Pediatrics has established a set of subject areas in which a certified developmental pediatrician should have knowledge and experience.
Typically, if a parent is concerned about his or her child’s development, this specialist is qualified to perform both a thorough assessment and diagnosis and can suggest treatment options. Neuropsychologists and psychiatrists are also trained to do developmental assessments. In addition, depending upon the child’s profile, other specialists such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech/language therapists would be asked to make their own assessments and to suggest treatment plans to meet the needs of the child.