Part 12: CloseUp Talk Radio spotlights Dr. Ivy Fisher Weiner

Daly City, CA – With one in every 88 children diagnosed as having some form of autism, the need for quality early intervention and treatment has become all the more essential.

Dr. Ivy Fisher Weiner is a developmental pediatrician specializing in the early intervention and treatment of behavioral disorders, particularly autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and learning disabilities.

“There are many things you can do to help children develop social skills, so you want to begin with social interventions and treatments as soon as possible,” says Dr. Weiner. “The earlier you can identify the disorder and begin treatment, the better the outcome. The key is to be part of the process and part of the treatment plan right from the get go.”

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills. Dr. Weiner’s experience over the past 34 years has been in helping to determine what treatment plans and policies are the most instructive and effective.

“I think every doctor treats autism a little differently,” says Dr. Weiner. “You come to find children walk through your door in all different shapes and sizes and presentations. It really is a spectrum, so you have to customize treatment for each individual child. There’s hope for everyone, but it’s different for everyone.”

As children get older and become more aware of their disabilities and social difficulties, Dr. Weiner believes it’s crucial for them to have a mentor in social interaction. Even basic concepts like how to make a friend require diligence and discipline.

"The expectation and anticipation of your routine is very important," says Dr. Weiner. "You have to keep things routine, structured and written down.”