Lisa Nalven, MD

What are some of the specific conditions you treat?

As a pediatrician trained in developmental/behavioral pediatrics the focus of my practice is caring for children with a wide range of neurodevelopmental disabilities including developmental delay, intellectual disability, autism, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Our practice also cares for children with a variety of genetic disorders, including our program for children with Down Syndrome through the Joey Center.

What techniques or procedures do you use in your practice?

Our practice provides comprehensive evaluations. In order to have a complete understanding of a child's profile, we ask for comprehensive history which includes questionnaires for parent, teachers, therapists as well as reports from other medical providers and an interview with the family. Direct assessment of the child includes developmental/behavioral assessment/testing as well as a complete physical examination. This information is used to understand why a child is experiencing challenges, to make a diagnosis, and to provide recommendations to support the child's overall health and development.

What would you like patients to know about your approach to care?

Anytime a parent or caregiver has a concern about their child's development or behavior, our program is a resource that can be contacted in order to determine what type of evaluation is needed. Our program takes a comprehensive approach to work with children and their families in order to evaluate a child's difficulties and to support them and their families in addressing challenges and helping a child reach their maximum potential. Our goal is to address not only the physical issues but also the social-emotional issues that impact a child and their family.

What inspired you to become a doctor?

Working with children with chronic health and developmental issues is something I have done since high school. Being a developmental pediatrician has allowed me to integrate the social, emotional, and physical aspects of caring for children.

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Publications

Nalven L, Hofkosh D, Feldman H, Kelleher K. "Teach Residents About Early Intervention and Special Education.” J Dev Behav Pediatr. 1997 Dec; 18(6):371-6.

“Strategies for Addressing Long Term Issues After Institutionalization.” Pediatr Clin North Am., 2005 Oct; 52(5):1421-44 viii.

Forkey H, Garner A,  Nalven L,  et al. “Helping Foster and Adoptive Families Cope with Trauma: A Guide for Pediatricians.” American Academy of Pediatrics and the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, 2013.

“Identifying and Accessing Supports: Strategies for Addressing Long Term Issues.” Adoption Medicine: Caring for Children and Families.  PW Mason, DE Johnson, LA Prock ed., American  Academy of Pediatrics, 2014. 

"Adoption Medicine: Caring for Children and Families." PW Mason, DE Johnson, LA Prock ed., American  Academy of Pediatrics, 2014.