Child Development

Patti Metosky, Ph.D. is a psychologist in the Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics / Child Development Unit (CDU) at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. As a developmental psychologist, Dr. Metosky is an integral member of a group of specialists in the Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics / CDU. This group of specialists includes developmental/behavioral pediatricians, nurse practitioners, psychologists, behavioral consultants, and trainees who help parents understand their child's developmental, behavioral, and emotional concerns that accompany diagnosis and make referrals for treatment of various developmental and emotional needs. Dr. Metosky provides psychological evaluations for children with developmental and behavioral concerns, including children with ADHD, autism, and developmental differences and delays.

Having trained with Dr. Ivar Lovaas and working extensively and directly with children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder for over 15 years, she has developed expertise in not only the diagnosis of children, but also in generating appropriate treatment goals and effective behavioral interventions. She is experienced in assisting children and their families address a myriad of concerns, including enhancing social skills, fostering communication, and diminishing self-stimulatory and repetitive behavioral presentations. Her experience includes assisting with developing behavioral contracts and reward systems in the classroom.

Dr. Metosky also has experience in the diagnosis of children with Attention Deficit Disorders and in assisting parents with behavioral strategies often observed in children. Prior to obtaining her doctoral degree in psychology, she worked as a pediatric nurse practitioner in the Child Development Unit. Her doctoral degree was earned from the University of Pittsburgh's Educational Psychology program.