Behavioral Evaluations
Dr. Sindu Pillai, MD Inc.
Pediatricians located in Murrieta, CA
Your child undergoes a behavioral evaluation during a well-child visit. However, if you have concerns about a neurodevelopmental condition like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you may need a more thorough behavioral evaluation. Sindu Pillai, MD, is an experienced pediatrician who provides behavioral evaluations at her offices in Murrietta, California. To find out more about behavioral evaluations at the office of Dr. Sindu Pillai, MD Inc., call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
Behavioral Evaluations Q & A
What are behavioral evaluations?
Behavioral evaluations are tools that assess how your child reacts and behaves in various situations. Dr. Pillai conducts a behavioral evaluation during well-child visits; however, she provides more comprehensive evaluations when you have concerns about your child’s behavior or development.
Who needs behavioral evaluations?
If you have concerns about your child’s behavior at home or school, you should schedule a behavioral evaluation with Dr. Pillai. These behavioral issues may be signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder in children. Children with ADHD struggle with inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, making it hard to learn at school and socialize with peers.
When scheduling a behavioral evaluation, Dr. Pillai has you and your child’s teacher complete the National Institute for Children’s Health Quality (NICHQ) Vanderbilt Assessment Scale. This assessment helps Dr. Pillai determine the proper diagnosis to explain your child’s behavioral changes.
Dr. Pillai requests that these forms be completed before your scheduled behavioral evaluation.
What can I expect during behavioral evaluations?
You can expect compassionate care during a behavioral evaluation with Dr. Pillai. She requests both parents be present at the assessment, along with the child.
Dr. Pillai asks about the concerns or issues you have about your child and how it’s affecting home or school life. She also reviews your child’s medical and developmental history, as well as your family history.
She uses the information from the exam and the NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scale to make an accurate diagnosis.
What happens after behavioral evaluations?
After the behavioral evaluation, Dr. Pillai discusses the assessment results, your child’s diagnosis, and the treatment options.
Dr. Pillai may talk to you about the medications that help improve concentration for ADHD, including how they work and side effects. She also may recommend behavioral therapy and family therapy.
If you decide to go ahead with ADHD medications, Dr. Pillai works closely with you to find the correct medication and dose, scheduling weekly and then monthly follow-ups. Because ADHD medications may affect your child’s appetite, Dr. Pilllai may also schedule weight visits to monitor your child’s weight.
To learn more about behavioral evaluations at the office of Dr. Sindu Pillai, MD Inc., call or schedule a consultation online today.