Divisions: Developmental/Behavioral
The Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics is dedicated to the comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and management of developmental, behavioral, and emotional conditions affecting children and adolescents. Its mission is to promote optimal developmental outcomes through the integration of clinical care, scholarship, education, and advocacy.
Education is a core component of the division’s mission. The program provides training in developmental-behavioral pediatrics for medical students, pediatric residents, and allied health professionals, while also offering educational resources and guidance to families, educators, and community providers.
A hallmark of the division is its multidisciplinary, team-based approach to care. Children referred for evaluation benefit from coordinated diagnostic assessment and treatment planning across multiple disciplines. This collaborative model emphasizes clear communication, sensitivity in discussing complex developmental concerns, and shared, family-centered decision-making, principles that are consistently demonstrated across clinical and educational activities.
Clinical training within the division reflects this collaborative model and emphasizes longitudinal, experience-based learning. Trainees participate in outpatient evaluations and structured observational experiences in community-based programs serving children with special health care needs. These experiences focus on a wide range of developmental and behavioral conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, myelodysplasia, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, feeding disorders, and follow-up care for high-risk neonates.
Community partners supporting medical education include a range of clinical, behavioral, educational, and community-based organizations. Clinical experiences are provided through the Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics team at ProMedica Russell J. Ebeid Children’s Hospital as well as pediatric rehabilitation services at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center. Behavioral health training is supported by Harbor Behavioral Health, a leading mental health provider in northwest Ohio. Learners also gain exposure to community-based educational, residential, and vocational programs. These include Educare, an early intervention and daycare center for developmentally delayed children, The Model School, an elementary school serving children with autism, Sunshine Children’s Home, a group home and respite care program for children with special needs, Bittersweet Farms, a group home for autistic adults, and Lott Industries, an organization employing adults with special needs.
Educational Lead
Eileen Quinn, M.D.
Professor