The Division of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics cares for children from birth to 22 years of age. Our team of specialists focuses on diagnosis, treatment, and support for children with developmental delays and behavior challenges. We work together with your child’s other doctors, therapists, teachers, coaches, childcare, and family members to develop the best plan to meet their medical needs. ### Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics - [Contact Us](#contact-us) - [Specialty Clinics](#specialty-clinics) - [Programs and Services](#programs-and-services) - [Conditions We Treat](#conditions-we-treat) - [Our Team](#our-team) - [Patient Resources](#patient-resources) - [Provider Resources](#provider-resources) - [More Resources](#more-resources) - [Research Overview](#research-overview) - [Residency and Fellowship Information](#residency-and-fellowship-information) Visit the emergency room or call 911 if you feel your child is at risk of hurting themselves or others. ## Contact Us [617.414.4841](tel:617.414.4841) Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ## Specialty Clinics [### Baby Steps A program within the Department of Pediatrics focused on newborn development and nutrition, providing support, education, and guidance to help families promote healthy growth and early development in infants. ](/departments/pediatric-specialty-care/developmental-and-behavioral-pediatrics/baby-steps) [### Pediatric Comprehensive Care Program A pediatric primary care program focused on comprehensive support for children with complex pediatric medical conditions, including care coordination, management of ongoing health needs, and partnering with families. ](/departments/pediatric-comprehensive-care-program) [### Deaf and Hard of Hearing Collaborative A program within the Department of Pediatrics providing pediatric audiology care for children with pediatric hearing loss, including hearing assessments, diagnosis, amplification services, and follow-up care to support communication and learning. ](/departments/pediatric-specialty-care/deaf-and-hard-hearing-collaborative) [### The Grow Clinic for Children A program within the Department of Pediatrics providing pediatric social services for children with growth and developmental concerns, including screening, nutrition guidance, and coordinated care to support healthy development. ](/departments/pediatric-primary-care/grow-clinic-children) ## Programs and Services [### The Autism Program at Boston Medical Center The Autism Program at Boston Medical Center assists and empowers individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related disabilities through direct patient support, provider education, and community-based outreach. ](/pediatrics-autism-program) ## Conditions We Treat - [Autism Spectrum Disorders](/autism-spectrum-disorders) - [Attention Disorders](/patient-care/conditions-we-treat/db/attention-disorders) - [Developmental Delay](/pediatrics-neurology/developmental-delay) - [Learning and Behavior Challenges](/patient-care/conditions-we-treat/db/learning-and-behavior-challenges) - [Anxiety Disorders](/patient-care/conditions-we-treat/db/anxiety-disorders) ## Our Team ![Developmental and Behavioral Health Team](/sites/default/files/inline-images/DBP_2024DivisionPhoto.jpg) ### Developmental and Behavioral Clinicians ### [Marilyn C. Augustyn, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/marilyn-c-augustyn-md) Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician; Director, Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/e5a77384-e4af-478b-9fdc-8ffa2b73d4f6/Marilyn-Augustyn_web?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Audrey K. Christiansen, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/audrey-k-christiansen-md) Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/442e68c7-8bec-4199-9751-df71ec68792e/Christiansen_Audrey__37-jpg?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Rachel S. Amgott, NP](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/rachel-s-amgott-np) Pediatric Nurse Practitioner ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/36a642b5-792a-437a-b50d-abf0649fc43f/Rachel-Amgott_326_2x3?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Sarah K. Canale, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/sarah-k-canale-md) Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/a94b000e-2b2c-491d-834f-5c559b30e5f0/sarah-canale_13_2x3?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Mei A. Elansary, MD, MPhil](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/mei-elansary-md-mphil) Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/3cc9cd38-b282-49fd-9473-4fa822092057/Elansary-headshot-1?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Mary Ellen Killion, MSN, RN, PNP-BC](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/mary-ellen-killion-msn-rn-pnp-bc) Pediatric Nurse Practitioner ![Headshot of Mary Ellen Killion, MSN, RN, PNP-BC, CPNP, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Boston Medical Center](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/1fa95cdf-f513-4654-9106-b0e45d8e9868/Mary-Ellen-Killion-MSN-RN-PNP-BC-CPNP-2x3-crop?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Christina M. Lazdowsky, MSN, NP](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/christina-m-lazdowsky-msn-np) Pediatric Nurse Practitioner ![Placeholder image for doctor](/themes/custom/bmc_base_theme/assets/images/placeholders/headshoticon-v2.svg) ### [Bridget Poznanski, PhD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/bridget-poznanski-phd) Psychologist ![Placeholder image for doctor](/themes/custom/bmc_base_theme/assets/images/placeholders/headshoticon-v2.svg) ### [Arathi Reddy, DO](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/arathi-reddy-do) Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/bbddc995-e593-4ee4-8c86-14f5d1f1313b/Reddy-Arathi?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Arielle H. Spellun, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/arielle-h-spellun-md) Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/96839a1e-0182-49c7-9d25-897df99b8492/Screen-Shot-2024-03-05-at-11-07-00-AM?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) #### Current Fellows Rachel Vuolo, MD Selcen Yaroglu Kazanci, MD ### Referral Team Katie Campbell Sharon Nerboso ### Grow Clinic ### [Soukaina Adolphe, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/soukaina-adolphe-md) Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/eadb51ae-48ee-4df5-a351-17b7014f6747/Soukaina-Adolphe?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Deborah A. Frank, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/deborah-frank-md) Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician ![Headshot of Dr. Deborah Frank](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/6d0ae765-cd2c-430a-895a-8ef65ddeec2f/Deborah-Frank?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Megan T. Sandel, MD, MPH](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/megan-t-sandel-md) Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/01a027b0-211b-4c47-865d-5b11e5dffb17/Megan-Sandel-2x3?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Margot Tang, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/margot-tang-md) Pediatric Gastroenterologist ![Placeholder image for doctor](/themes/custom/bmc_base_theme/assets/images/placeholders/headshoticon-v2.svg) ### Child Protection ### [Genevieve L. Preer, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/genevieve-l-preer-md) Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/1bb6608b-e241-4d52-8edc-d27cd2267183/Genevieve-Preer_971_2x3?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) Elizabeth Egan, LCSW Taneequa Fields, LCSW ### Autism Program Sara Bastin Katie Campbell Liz Ferriero Alex Friedman Maddy Goskoski Hillary Hollis Shari Krauss Jacqueline McKendry ### Comprehensive Care Program ### [John S. Maypole, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/john-s-maypole-md) Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/b51e57a6-c272-420b-b8ba-d29ab1fec705/Jack-Maypole-2x3?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Jodi K. Wenger, MD](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/jodi-k-wenger-md) Pediatrician ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/2ae8f338-ffc6-4a10-8037-65ba34c5695e/Jodi-Wenger-2x3?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### Child Witness to Violence ### [Courtney Ann Bailey, LICSW](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/courtney-ann-bailey-licsw) Social Worker ![Placeholder image for doctor](/themes/custom/bmc_base_theme/assets/images/placeholders/headshoticon-v2.svg) ### [Neena N McConnico, LMHC](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/neena-n-mcconnico-lmhc) ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/5fd0061d-20de-4b88-8704-2e4ff1f58107/Neena-McConnico?io=transform:fill,width:333,height:500&format=jpg) ### [Maureen A. Patterson-Fede, LICSW](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/maureen-patterson-fede-licsw) Mental Health Clinician ![Placeholder image for doctor](/themes/custom/bmc_base_theme/assets/images/placeholders/headshoticon-v2.svg) ### [Katherine Thomas, LMHC](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/katherine-thomas-lmhc) ![Placeholder image for doctor](/themes/custom/bmc_base_theme/assets/images/placeholders/headshoticon-v2.svg) Carmen Rosa Norona, LICSW, Ms. Ed., CEIS Clinical Coordinator of CWVP & Associate Director of ETTN Stacy Normand, LICSW Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinician Lead Sarah Hacking, LMHC Clinician Amalia Perla, LMHC Mental Health and Intake Clinician Natalie Heywood, MA Clinician Rory White, LCSW Marigold Clinical Fellow ### Good Grief ### [Maureen A. Patterson-Fede, LICSW](https://www.bmc.org/about-us/directory/doctor/maureen-patterson-fede-licsw) Mental Health Clinician ![Placeholder image for doctor](/themes/custom/bmc_base_theme/assets/images/placeholders/headshoticon-v2.svg) ## Patient Resources #### Handout: Resources for Families Referred to DBP (PDF) [![Thumbnail of 'Developmental Concerns' Handout](/sites/default/files/inline-images/image_26.png)](/sites/default/files/2025-06/English_Resource%20for%20Families%20Referred%20to%20BMC.pdf "BMC Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics: Developmental Concerns Resources, June 2025 (PDF, English)")Download our handout to learn about available resources for families who have developmental concerns and who are awaiting their initial meeting with Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics: - [Resources for Families Referred to BMC DBP—English](/sites/default/files/2025-06/English_Resource%20for%20Families%20Referred%20to%20BMC.pdf "BMC Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics: Developmental Concerns Resources, June 2025 (PDF, English)") - [Resources for Families Referred to BMC DBP—Español](/sites/default/files/2025-06/BMC-Resource-for-Families-Referred-to-DBP-Spanish.pdf "BMC Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics: Developmental Concerns Resources, June 2025 (PDF, Spanish)") - [Resources for Famlies Referred to BMC DBP—Kreyòl Ayisyen](/sites/default/files/2025-06/Haitian%20Creole%20-%20Resource%20for%20Families%20Referred%20to%20DBP.pdf "BMC Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics: Developmental Concerns Resources, June 2025 (PDF, Haitian Creole)") #### Enrolling your Child in Early Intervention Children younger than 3 years of age are eligible for services through Early Intervention. Please visit [Family TIES of Massachusetts](https://fcsn.org/family-ties/ "Federation for Children with Special Needs: Family TIES of Massachusetts (fcsn.org/family-ties)") to find resources for an evaluation for your child. Parents can self-refer and providers will evaluate your child in the home or at a center in your area to provide therapy. #### School Special Education Resources Packet for Parents and Caregivers The following packet provides information for parents about the process to obtain an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for your child. Parents should provide a letter to their child’s school requesting an evaluation if they are concerned about their child’s progress. Concerns can also include speech and language delays. - [All Boston (and You!) Can Do for Your Child (ABCD)—English](/files/Programs___Services/Programs_for_Children/ABCDpacket_2019.pdf) - [All Boston (and You!) Can Do for Your Child (ABCD)—Español](/sites/default/files/2022-07/ABCD%20Packet_Spanish.pdf) - [All Boston (and You!) Can Do for Your Child (ABCD)—Kreyòl Ayisyen](/sites/default/files/2022-07/ABCD%20Packet_Haitian%20Creole.pdf) - [All Boston (and You!) Can Do for Your Child (ABCD)—Português](/sites/default/files/2022-07/ABCD%20Packet_Portuguese_0.pdf) #### Other Resources [The Massachusetts Center for Unexpected Infant and Child Death](https://www.magriefcenter.org/ "Massachusetts Center for Unexpected Infant and Child Death (magriefcenter.org)") [Massachusetts Referral, Evaluation, and Eligibility Determination Guide](https://www.doe.mass.edu/rlo/sped/eligibility-guide/index.html#/) [### Model of Care (Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics) An explanation of the three steps of our typical model of care ](/model-care-developmental-and-behavioral-pediatrics) [### Breathing Exercises for Pre-K to Middle School Children This video was designed to offer breathing and yoga exercises for pre-K to middle school children struggling with remote learning. ](/pediatrics-developmental-behavioral-pediatrics/self-care-videos-parents-patients-and-providers) ## Provider Resources [### Model of Care (Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics) An explanation of the three steps of our typical model of care ](/model-care-developmental-and-behavioral-pediatrics) [### Supporting Patients While Waiting for Evaluation - Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics The Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics program at BMC has high referral rates. While waiting, we have provided the following recommendations to support waiting patients. ](/supporting-patients-while-waiting-evaluation-developmental-and-behavioral-pediatrics) ## More Resources #### The Center for Excellence in Immigrant Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health The Center for Excellence in Immigrant Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (CEIIECMH) is an interdisciplinary program that aims to improve access to racially and socially equitable developmentally-, trauma-, and diversity-informed infant and early childhood mental health (IEMCH) services for pregnant individuals and children ages zero to five in undocumented and mixed-status immigrant families. In order to do this, we provide workforce support and development and work to influence systems change. [Learn More About Our Trainings and Work](/center-excellence-immigrant-infant-and-early-childhood-mental-health) #### DBP Newsletters DBP and the Autism Program produce a regular newsletter with resources and information for families. If you are interested in receiving the newsletter as well as other occasional updates, please [sign up here](https://redcap.bumc.bu.edu/surveys/?s=KJEDKW3E3ALPDFLM "BMC Autism Program Mailing List Signup | Powered by REDCap"). - [Issue 82: June 5, 2025](/sites/default/files/Patient_Care/Specialty_Care/Pediatrics%20-%20Autism/DBP-News/2025/BMC-DBP-Development-and-Beyond-Newsletter-Iss-82-2025-06-05.pdf "Development and Beyond Newsletter, Issue 82: June 5, 2025") - [Issue 81: May 1, 2025](/sites/default/files/Patient_Care/Specialty_Care/Pediatrics%20-%20Autism/DBP-News/2025/BMC-DBP-Development-and-Beyond-Newsletter-Iss-81-2025-05-01.pdf "Development and Beyond Newsletter, Issue 81: May 1, 2025") - [Issue 80: April 3, 2025](/sites/default/files/2025-04/BMC-DBP-Development-and-Beyond-Newsletter-Iss-80-2025-04-03.pdf "Development and Beyond Newsletter, Issue 80: April 3, 2025") - [Issue 79: March 6, 2025](/sites/default/files/2025-03/Issue%2079_%203.6.25.pdf "Development and Beyond Newsletter, Issue 79: March 6, 2025") - [Issue 78: February 6, 2025](/sites/default/files/2025-02/BMC-DBP-Development-and-Beyond-Newsletter-Iss-78-2025-02-06.pdf "Development and Beyond Newsletter, Issue 78: February 6, 2025") - [Issue 77: January 9, 2025](/sites/default/files/2025-02/BMC-DBP-Development-and-Beyond-Newsletter-Iss-77-2025-01-09.pdf "Development and Beyond Newsletter, Issue 77: January 9, 2025") Archival issues of the DBP Newsletter can be found on our [Autism Resources](/node/117926/) page. ## Research Overview Information about our current research is available via our annual research highlights: [Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics 2021 Research Highlights](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/2022-01/DBP_Research%20Highlights%202021.pdf) [Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics 2022 Research Highlights](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/2022-08/DBP_Research%20Highlights%202022_1.pdf) ## Residency and Fellowship Information The Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (DBP) training program offers clinical, academic, and advocacy training in the context of an urban setting. Our primary clinical training site is at Boston Medical Center, which is the largest safety-net hospital in New England and has a longstanding commitment to providing exceptional care without exception. Special emphasis is placed on the DBP issues facing families living in the inner city. [Learn More about Our Training Program](/developmental-and-behavioral-pediatrics-training-program "Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics: Training Program | Boston Medical Center") For general information about program or application materials, please contact: Kristin Cordes Fellowship Coordinator [617.414.3665](tel:617.414.3665) **For program information, please contact:** Audrey Christiansen, MD, Program Director Boston Medical Center Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 7th Floor Boston, MA 02118 [617.414.4841](tel:617.414.4841) [audrey.christiansen@bmc.org](mailto:audrey.christiansen@bmc.org "Email")