Developmental Pediatrics of Central Jersey

06/07/2024

OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder is a behavioral issue that affects up to 3 percent of children according to the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. As you learn more about autism in children, you may find that there is a correlation between this developmental condition and OCD. You’ll learn more about how to treat OCD features in autism spectrum disorder patients when you visit Melanie DeNardo, APN, and the pediatric team at Developmental Pediatrics of Central Jersey, in Ocean, NJ.
What Is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can be characterized by an intense need for order, repetition and ritualistic behavior. Patients with OCD may have symptoms that range from needing to carry a certain item with them everywhere they go (even in inappropriate situations) or counting actions (like touching a faucet a certain number of times before continuing with their day). Experts believe that it may be related to anxiety or fear of bad luck if they don’t complete specific actions.
OCD and Autism Spectrum Disorder

OCD symptoms commonly begin to show up in children at a very young age and may be linked to other behavioral issues, like autism spectrum disorder. Children who are diagnosed with autism may have problems with relationships and relating with others, learning in school, and general communication. They also sometimes show a predisposition to repetitive and obsessive behaviors related to OCD, like saying the same phrases until they feel comfortable or safe.
Treatment Options for Autistic Patients with OCD

When a patient is diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder and also displays symptoms of OCD, there are a number of treatment options you’ll discuss with your Ocean, NJ, medical practitioner including:
Initial observation and evaluation of the child’s actions and behaviors during a neurological assessment.
Cognitive behavioral therapy with an exposure and response prevention (ERP) professional.
Medication targeted to treat neurological disorders.
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Treating OCD and Autism

At Developmental Pediatrics of Central Jersey, in Ocean, NJ, you can consult with Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Melanie DeNardo, APN about OCD and how it relates to autism spectrum disorder in patients. Call (732) 660-0220 today to schedule a consultation and evaluation for your child.

05/09/2024

Meet Kris Borys, LPC, LCADC, ACS

Professional Counselor and Mental Health Clinician in Monmouth County

Kris Borys is a highly regarded mental health clinician who brings her enthusiasm and engaging personality to all her clients. Kris is a dually licensed professional counselor with a vast knowledge of therapeutic modalities. Kris is fully licensed by the state of New Jersey as a LPC (licensed professional counselor), a LCADC (licensed certified alcohol and drug counselor) and she holds the ACS certification (approved clinical supervisor) which allows her to train new counselors emerging in the field. Kris has been working in the mental health field for over 20 years in a variety of capacities, including inpatient mental health treatment for children & adolescents, day treatment programs for children, in-home counseling for children/families as well as individual therapy for kids and adults. Kris earned her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from the Ohio State University and her MS (Masters of Science) in mental health counseling from Monmouth University. Over the course of her career Kris has been exceedingly flexible and resourceful with engaging interpersonal skills, broad-based clinical experience and solid grounding in direct patient care. From her experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma focused interventions she brings a wealth of experience to our practice. Born and raised in Monmouth County Kris enjoys spending time swimming, listening to music, sitting beachside or cheering on her favorite college football team! Kris has been married for over 25 years and has two amazing adult daughters and three fur babies who also take up a lot of her time!!

If your child is in need of a therapist, please call the office and we can get an appointment set up. (Your child does not need to be a current patient at the office to see Kris.)

04/01/2024

We are so happy to welcome Melanie DeNardo to the practice!! Melanie is a highly qualified and compassionate healthcare professional with a dedication to improving mental health outcomes in her community. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Hackensack-Meridian School of Nursing at Georgian Court University, as well as a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University, specializing in psychiatric-mental health.
With a career primarily focused on Case Management, Melanie has been instrumental in guiding patients and families through the complexities of the healthcare system. It was during this time that she recognized the pervasive nature of the mental health crisis and the lack of resources for outpatient mental health care. Motivated by the needs of her patients, she pursued further specialization as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, Melanie brings a unique perspective to her practice. As a mother to a daughter with her own mental health challenges, she understands the importance of empathy and tailored care. This personal connection fuels her passion to support children and adolescents on their journey to wellness, empowering them to thrive and reach their full potential.
Born and raised in Monmouth County, Melanie is deeply rooted in her community. She is a devoted mother to three children and finds great fulfillment in serving her community each day.

03/12/2024

10/06/2023

We are proud to sponsor this event! Come visit us at our booth!

Welcome!   Thank you to our attendees, speakers, sponsors, and exhibitors for joining us at our 41st Anniversary Conference. We will be using the CEUHelper app fo…