Researcher | Research Overview
Dr. Ellen Hanson is a Developmental Psychologist, Behavioral Specialist and Researcher. She is an expert in diagnosis and treatment of children who have significant developmental disabilities. Within this area, she also has specific research and clinical interest in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with whom she was worked with for over 20 years; the effect of prematurity on development; and children with rare genetic disorders, including 16p11.2 deletion and duplication syndrome. Dr. Hanson travels nationally and internationally to train professionals in the use of phenotyping measures, developmental assessment tools and behavioral interventions for clinical and research use with children. Dr. Hanson has developed and run numerous programs at CH including large studies involving individuals with ASD and related disorders; social skills enhancement programs and educational programs for parents. Additionally, she has developed an undergraduate training program at CH for students who are interested in pursuing careers as future specialists in developmental disability.