781-235-9737Behavioral Consultations
Helping Children Thrive — Emotionally, Socially, and Academically
At Universal Pediatric Associates, we understand that every child is unique — and sometimes, children face challenges that affect their behavior, emotions, or daily routines. Our Behavioral Consultation Services are designed to support families in understanding these challenges and finding positive, practical solutions.
What Are Behavioral Consultations?
Behavioral consultations provide families with professional guidance and support when a child is struggling with behavior, emotions, or development. During these appointments, our pediatric specialists work with parents and caregivers to identify concerns, assess underlying causes, and create a personalized plan to help your child succeed.
Common Concerns We Help With
We can help your child and family manage a variety of concerns, including:
- Difficulty focusing, paying attention, or sitting still
- Emotional outbursts, irritability, or frequent tantrums
- Trouble with sleep routines or bedtime behaviors
- Challenges with eating habits or picky eating
- Social difficulties with peers or siblings
- Anxiety, fears, or mood changes
- School behavior or learning concerns
- Adjusting to major life changes (divorce, new sibling, loss, etc.)
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your child’s behavioral consultation will typically include:
- Parent Discussion: Review of your child’s history, behaviors, and concerns.
- Observation & Assessment: Depending on age and concern, we may observe your child’s behavior or conduct screening questionnaires.
- Personalized Plan: Together, we’ll develop strategies and recommendations tailored to your child’s needs — which may include behavior strategies, parenting support, school collaboration, or referrals for further evaluation.
Our goal is to empower families with understanding, tools, and confidence to help children grow and thrive.
Collaboration and Follow-Up
Behavioral care is often a team effort. We may collaborate with teachers, counselors, or specialists (such as psychologists, occupational therapists, or speech-language pathologists) to ensure consistent support across home and school environments. Follow-up visits help us track progress and adjust plans as your child’s needs evolve.
Schedule a Behavioral Consultation
If you’re concerned about your child’s behavior, emotions, or development, we’re here to help.
📞 Call 781 235 9737 to schedule a consultation with one of our pediatric providers.
Supporting Families Every Step of the Way
At Universal Pediatric Associates, we believe in compassionate, evidence-based care that supports both the child and the family. Together, we can create a path toward positive change and lifelong well-being.
Featured in Boston Magazine as a Top Doctor since 2016
FAQ About Behavioral Consultations:
Q:
What does a behavioral consultant do?
A:
A behavioral consultant works with children and families to understand what’s behind a child’s behavior and to guide positive change. They observe patterns, identify triggers, and help parents use practical, evidence-based strategies to support better emotional regulation and behavior.
Q:
When do you need to see a behavioral consultant?
A:
It’s a good time to seek behavioral consultation when your child’s emotions or actions start to feel overwhelming or hard to manage. Maybe your child is having frequent meltdowns, trouble focusing, aggression, or anxiety that affects daily life. Some families reach out when discipline isn’t working, while others want help adjusting to major life changes or developmental transitions.
Q:
What happens during a behavioral consultation session?
A:
A behavioral consultation is a conversation and observation session rolled into one. The consultant talks with parents to learn about the child’s history, current challenges, and family routines. They may spend time watching the child play or interact to see what triggers certain behaviors. Together, you’ll talk about what’s working, what isn’t, and set a few realistic goals. From there, the consultant offers practical strategies for home or school. Over time, sessions focus on progress, adjustments, and further helping you as a parent or caregiver.
Q:
What are the benefits of early behavioral consultations for children?
A:
Getting help early can make a huge difference. Children are still learning how to express emotions, solve problems, and navigate their world. When families get support early, kids often gain stronger communication and coping skills, and parents feel more confident handling tough moments. Early intervention can also prevent behaviors from becoming more deeply rooted, helping children adjust better socially and emotionally as they grow.
Q:
How do I prepare for my first behavioral consultation?
A:
Before your first session, it helps to think about what concerns you most and what you’d like to see improve. Try to recall when certain behaviors started and what tends to trigger them. Bring along any previous reports or notes from teachers or healthcare providers, and come ready to share your child’s routines and personality. Most importantly, come with an open mind. The session is meant to be supportive and collaborative—it’s a chance to better understand your child and to start building strategies that fit your family’s everyday life.
Dr. Milana Stavitsky
Top Doctor by Boston Magazine since 2016 Born in Russia, Dr. Milana Stavitsky graduated from St. Petersburg Medical Pediatric Academy where she received her undergraduate degree and MD.
Dr. Rose Mele
Dr. Rose Mele is a native of Watertown, Massachusetts and attended Brandeis where she graduated with honors.