In order to optimize a child's chances for success, it takes the dedication of a team of experts. The Pediatric Center of Excellence is guided by two Co-Medical Directors who provide clinical leadership for the department. Beneath these Medical Directors, the child or young adult will be cared for by a team that specializes in every aspect of pediatric rehabilitation. We have assembled this team to provide the resources so that you can be you again.
Co-Medical Directors
Louise Spierre, M.D., Co-Medical Director for the Pediatric Center of Excellence, is board certified by both the American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and the American Board of Pediatrics. In addition, she holds a subspecialty certification in Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine. Dr. Spierre received her graduate education at the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and embarked on a combined residency in the fields of pediatrics and physical medicine and rehabilitation at the Children's Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. She has presented at national conferences on brain injury and pediatric rehabilitations and is the lead author of the chapter “Rehabilitation of the Child with Multiple Injuries” in the textbook Skeletal Trauma in Children.
Connie Prudencio, M.D., Co-Medical Director for the Pediatric Center of Excellence, is a Diplomat of the American Board of Pediatrics. She trained at the University of Florida College of Medicine, De LaSalle College of Medicine and the Medical Center Manila. While at the University of Florida, Dr. Prudencio earned the "Rookie Attending of the Year" award and also the Best Teaching "Apple Award." During her time at Brooks, Dr. Prudencio has been honored with the "Celebrate the Stars" award-Brooks' highest level of recognition bestowed on an employee for exemplifying the Brooks values of Innovation, Integrity, Accountability, Service, Teamwork and Excellence.
Program Director
Cynthia Beaulieu, Ph.D., ABPP-CN, Program Director for the Pediatric Center of Excellence, joined Brooks in 1988 and was the Manager of the Department of Psychology. In addition to her work at Brooks, she is an extremely accomplished researcher, reviewer, author and speaker. Beaulieu is a clinical researcher at the Brooks Center for Rehabilitative Studies in collaboration with the University of Florida; a Site Investigator for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; and an Adjunct Professor at the University of North Florida-to name a few of her professional activities. Beaulieu will be working very closely with Drs. Spierre and Prudencio.
Your Pediatric Team
Physiatrist – A medical doctor who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation manages medical issues and medication concerns. Patients meet with the physician once a week.
Rehabilitation nurse – A registered nurse (RN) specializing in rehabilitation is a key element of care while in Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital.
Physical therapist – Evaluates, treats and educates children about ways to maximize functional abilities and mobility in order to increase independence. This discipline is essential for children with developmental delays and disorders, traumatic injuries and sports injuries.
Occupational therapist – Teaches children new ways to function comfortably and efficiently, helping them succeed at the various tasks involved in growing to be independent, productive and happy adults.
Speech-language pathologist – Focuses on the treatment of children who need assistance to become functional communicators in their environment.
Cognitive therapist – Helps children improve deficits such as poor concentration, reasoning and problem-solving.
Case manager – In charge of handling communication regarding the child's progress with family and your insurance provider, as needed.
Dietitian – Acts as a consultant to help all children eat a healthy and appropriate diet.
Chaplain – Available as a resource to all patients independent of religious affiliation or belief system. The chaplain offers a variety of forms of support, including listening and helping children and families work through the difficulties that arise from having a life-changing event.