Developmental Disability

Adult and Child Psychiatrist in San Diego, California

Developmental Disability services offered in San Diego, CA

Developmental disabilities like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and intellectual disabilities can cause problems with learning and challenges with self-care throughout life. If your child exhibits signs of a developmental disability, visit expert psychiatrist Sanjoy Sathpathy, MD, and his team at So Cal Psychiatric Care in San Diego, California.

The team offers comprehensive assessments and understanding for children with developmental disabilities.

Developmental Disability Q&A

What is a developmental disability?

Developmental disabilities may result in intellectual (learning) disabilities, physical impairments, speech disorders, and medical problems. Some developmental disabilities are identifiable at birth, but many don’t become apparent until a child is between ages 3 and 6.
Children with a developmental disability don’t grow out of it. As adults, they continue to need an appropriate level of support.

The quality of therapy that children receive impacts how well they function as adults. A child who benefits from specialized therapies starting at an early age is more likely to gain self-confidence and learn skills that optimize their quality of life in adulthood.

What are the different kinds of developmental disabilities?

Developmental disabilities the So Cal Psychiatric Care team treats include:

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

ASD covers an extensive range of emotional and social developmental problems. Children typically have difficulties communicating and understanding body language. They may show no interest in conversation, often preferring to focus on highly-specific interests.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Children with ADHD exhibit two kinds of behaviors. They may be dreamy and inattentive or hyperactive and impulsive. Many children have both types of symptoms. ADHD causes problems at school and home, and untreated ADHD continues to cause problems in adulthood.

Intellectual disability (ID)

ID causes problems with intellectual challenges and everyday activities. A child with ID may have difficulties with speaking, eating, interacting with others, and reading. They often need help caring for themselves.

What support does my child need with their developmental disability?

Your child’s treatment for a developmental disability varies according to their specific needs. The So Cal Psychiatric Care team designs a personalized treatment plan for each child after a comprehensive evaluation.

However, the team first needs to determine the cause of the developmental disability. They also assess your child’s strengths and identify areas where they need support. Other professionals might be involved in the child’s assessment, which could include general medical tests and evaluations in:

Neurology (the nervous system)
Psychology
Psychiatry
Special educational needs
Hearing
Speech
Vision
Physical therapy

The So Cal Psychiatric Care team works closely with pediatricians and other specialists to ensure your child gets a complete and accurate evaluation.

The next step is developing a treatment and education plan with you and your child’s school. The goal for children with developmental disabilities is to help them communicate effectively with their families and belong in the community.