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Overview

The medical supports and services that our kids need vary, but it's important to understand them. Learn the role that different medical practitioners play in our kids' lives, the therapies they recommend, and when and how to access them.

What medical specialists and therapy providers should my child see?

Depending on your child’s age and diagnosis, there is a wide range of medical specialists who may provide care and support. Your primary care pediatrician will be the first point of contact or referral when you have concerns about your child’s development.
You may get a referral to see a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, neurologist, ophthalmologist, or audiologist for assessments. From there, you may be referred to a variety of therapists offering occupational, physical, speech-language, hearing, vision, behavioral, and other types of therapy. Learn about when to begin therapies, how to pay for them, and more.

Contents

Overview

What medical specialists and therapy providers should my child see?

Getting a Diagnosis

Most Common Developmental Disability Diagnoses

A New Diagnosis: Now What?

Mapping the Journey from Birth to Kindergarten: The 4 Ws of Early Intervention

Providers and Therapies

What Is a Care Team? - How to Build and Coordinate Your Child's Team

Types of Therapies: Glossary

Types of Medical Specialists: Glossary

What Is a Developmental Pediatrician?

Individualized Health Plan (IHP) in an IEP

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) 101

Latest Resources

Article

Language & Speech

Auditory Processing Disorders: What You Need to Know

Article

Accessibility

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 101

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Author

Brittany OlsenUndivided Editor

An editor and cartoonist who loves using words and images to simplify and share ideas. She has ten years of experience as a copy editor and lives near Portland, Oregon. She often spends her free time going on nature walks with her dog or trying new bread recipes.

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Jennifer Drew, Undivided Senior Editor

Each piece of content has been rigorously researched, edited, and vetted to bring you the latest and most up-to-date information. Learn more about our content and research process here.

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