Meet-a-Doc: Meet Dr. Cristina Farrell!
Hackensack Meridian K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital is excited to welcome our new leadership within developmental-behavioral pediatrics: Cristina Farrell, M.D., Division Chief.
Dr. Farrell is a specialized expert in a variety of different developmental conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, speech and language delay, behavior problems and more.
With almost 20 years of medical experience as well as a masters in public health, Dr. Farrell was attracted to the field due to her love and appreciation for neurodivergence and a passion to understand and support patients and their families. She loves learning about and advocating for each patient.
Dr. Farrell treats:
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Learning Disabilities
- Developmental Delay
- Speech and Language Delay
- Sensory Processing Disorder
- Behavior Challenges
- Twice Exceptional (“2E”)
- Genetic Syndromes
- Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
For parents and caregivers of children (of all ages with autism)
- Sign-up for free EmpowerU to receive personalized text messages with autism education, assistance for the newly diagnosed, emotional encouragement, and local resources.
For an appointment with the Child Evaluation Center (CEC), speak with your child’s pediatrician to connect with the CEC.
Call: 732-776-4176
Location:
Child Evaluation Center
81-04 Davis Ave
Neptune, NJ 07753
We asked Dr. Farrell!
What do patients say about you?
They would say that I am a kind, caring and warm doctor who wants the best for her patients and takes the time to understand and then communicate how to get there. I am also a fierce advocate for my patients and have been instrumental in many of my patients’ emotional and academic lives by helping them get the support and services they need in order to function to their capacity. I take the time to listen and provide non-judgmental education and support.
What is the #1 tip you always share with patient families?
Getting sufficient, high quality sleep plus regular exercise helps with EVERYTHING. Connection with supportive friends, family, and community is essential.
Do not try to resolve a difficult situation when you, your child, or your partner are “hangry” (hungry, angry, and usually also tired). Take a few deep breaths to slow down your nervous system before you respond. For parents of children with special needs: your child’s well-being depends on your well-being. You must carve out time to take care of yourself both medically and emotionally. I also stress that no children are “bad” or “lazy” — if it seems that way, there is an underlying developmental or social-emotional problem that needs to be addressed. Kids thrive on praise and recognition.
How do you spend time with your friends and family for fun?
I enjoy the beach, yoga, walks, the outdoors in general, music and art. I love being with my immediate and extended family.
What do you enjoy most about New Jersey?
I love that in NJ you can get to either New York City or Philadelphia, and to the beach, within 1-2 hours from most parts of the state. I love the beach and have spent vacations at the Jersey Shore almost every summer of my life.
