My interest in Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics covers a broad range of topics--all which are related to the optimal developmental and behavioral functioning of the child and the family. I have spent the majority of my professional time focusing on the care of the fussy baby and developing new models of clinical care and support for the family. My expertise, leadership, training in developmental and behavioral pediatrics has many facets and include mentoring from Dr. T Berry Brazelton, Dr. Steven Porges, and Mr. Fred Rogers.

My academic focus at Northwestern focuses on a clinical research program investigating behavioral regulation during early infancy. My previous research has identified new and novel non-pharmacological analgesic treatments for use during hospital procedures. My current academic focus will expand physician-family communication needed to convey technical medical and sensitive developmental information by using communication strategies that create relationship-based and safe, holding environments for families. This work includes training and research activities of effective family communication, and mentoring physician students in attuned communication skills. Finally, I'm actively developing with collaborators an app for the central processes for physician-family engagement.

My clinical activities focus on promoting child and family well-being that departs from the traditional model of illness in an individual and relocates child health life-long outcomes and improved developmental trajectories in the child–parent relationship. I care for children and families facing the challenges of autism spectrum disorders, language disorders, developmental delays, behavioral challenges like excessive crying, infant sleeping disorders, and school based attention and disruptive behavioral issues.