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Writer's pictureKirstin Douglas

Who Tests for Developmental Disorders?

Updated: May 20, 2022

Though therapy is highly effective in most cases, other medical support may be needed to further improvements towards goals, such as medications, diagnostic testing, and nutritional oversight. The following medical team members can be helpful in your child’s journey towards independence.

The following resources are medical professionals. Please contact your insurance company or your primary care physician for further assistance with finding the right team member to reach your goals. This information is based on the resources available in the Central Florida area.

Primary Care Physician (PCP): Almost all children have a primary care physician that tracks their overall development. Pediatric development is highly complicated, and your child’s PCP usually only has a few minutes to evaluate your child’s progress. If you have concerns, please bring them up in the meeting with your child’s PCP and get the proper referral before leaving if you plan to use your insurance for further services. PCPs generally do not diagnose disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder, or other neurological difficulties. If you suspect that your child has a disorder, ask for a referral to a specialist.

Developmental Pediatrician: Developmental Pediatricians focus on further evaluating children who are not developing age-appropriately. This pertains to academics, play, physical, and behavioral concerns during development. In addition, these physicians can diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder, or other developmental disorders.

Pediatric Neurologist: Pediatric Neurologists are another resource for further evaluating neurological disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder, Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy, and other neurological disorders. Check with your insurance company to see if you need a referral before scheduling an appointment.

Neuropsychologist: Neuropsychologists focus on evaluating children for neurobehavioral disorders who exhibit concerns such as poor behaviors, lack of attention, poor overall development, and low cognitive functions. A neuropsychologist can diagnose disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorders, etc. The testing completed by a neuropsychologist is extensive and usually takes two, 4-hour sessions.

Do you have more questions about medical services or the assessment process? Contact Wekiva Kids Therapy to set up a consultation with a Speech-Language Pathologist or Occupational Therapist Today.

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