International Adoption Clinic
SERVICES
International Adoption Education
Post-adoption Comprehensive Medical Examination
Post-adoption Neuropsychological Assessments
Post-adoption Specific Issue Consultation
Fee Structure
Our international adoption pediatrician and pediatric neuropsychologist, along with supporting specialists, provide thorough, evidence-based evaluations and assessments. You will receive a written report detailing findings, concerns and recommendations for your child. We review all our reports and discuss your concerns during an in-person or phone consultation. Our work with you in person or over the phone is highly personalized. There will be ample time to discuss any of your concerns in an unhurried manner.
Understanding the differences...
While many pediatricians have children adopted internationally in their practices, most do not have a carefully considered standardized approach to each adopted child’s initial evaluation. The medical records are often baffling, even to specialists like us who review them regularly. It is unusual to see a child who has had all the lab tests that are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Few children are routinely referred for formal hearing assessment or eye examination. Most primary care physicians do not feel comfortable considering a diagnosis of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), let alone using standardized FAS diagnostic analysis.
Typical developmental screening instruments administered by a parent or physician are less detailed than a neuropsychological assessment. American standardized tests also do not truly reflect the developmental level of a child being adopted from another country. We take this into account when interpreting results. We also consider you child's background, attachment style, approach to learning, attention span, capacity for self-regulation, and the impact of transitioning from one language and culture to another in understanding your child.
Addressing the whole child...
We provide anticipatory guidance about attachment and well-child concerns, especially those relevant to the post-institutionalized child. This guidance differs substantively from the average well-child advice. Many physicians are not fluent in the attachment issues of children who have been institutionalized. Parents are often advised to "wait and see" when a more active approach is needed.
We also provide valuable resource information and educational material to support the healthy journey of your child and family.
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