Pediatric Behavioral/Developmental Specialties

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The Tufts Pediatric Specialty Center at Lowell General Chelmsford
Pediatric Behavioral/Developmental Specialties

Concerned About Your Child's Behavior or Development?

"Help is within reach," says Roula Choueiri, MD, a pediatrician with advanced training in neuro-developmental disabilities. She is part of the Tufts Pediatric Specialty Center at Lowell General Hospital's Chelmsford Campus, a satellite of the Center for Children with Special Needs at the Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center.

For parents struggling to help a child overcome behavioral or developmental problems, this brings hope and some of Boston's best resources for diagnosis, treatment and coordination of care.

For children ages six and older, Dr. Choueiri offers diagnosis and treatment for issues including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities such as dyslexia, aggressive behaviors, communication disorders and developmental delays.

"Most of the kids we see have behavioral problems, or they're failing academically due to learning issues," she notes. "We provide a thorough medical evaluation and look at the psychosocial dynamics within the home and at school. Working closely with the family, teachers and school counselors, we formulate the most effective treatment approach."

For children up to age three, Dr. Choueiri focuses on early intervention - most commonly for language or developmental delays, and screening for autism spectrum disorders.

Pediatricians in Massachusetts are required to do developmental screening at well-baby visits. Children who don't pass must be referred to an early-intervention program for further evaluation. Many of these programs have long wait lists which can delay assessment as much as six months.

Tufts Pediatric Specialty Center in Chelmsford typically sees patients within one month of referral, so they are connected to appropriate services faster.

"Trust your gut, and reach out to your pediatrician if you have concerns," she urges parents. "And don't let language or cultural barriers hold you back," she adds, noting that Lowell General has interpreter services available. "Help is here."

Insurance covers services at the Tufts Pediatric Specialty Center, but a physician referral is required. For more information, call 978-937-6362.