Louis Hagopian

Biography

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH: Dr. Hagopian received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He completed a pre-doctoral internship at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, and in the Department of Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and Licensed Psychologist. Dr. Hagopian’s work involves the integration of clinical service, research, training and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He has consulted with state agencies, education departments, disability service organizations, advocacy organizations, professional organizations, States Attorneys General, and the U.S. Department of Justice for guidance on matters related to persons with autism and intellectual disabilities. This work includes the development of standards for treatment, position statements, best practice guidelines, and expert consultation. RESEARCH SUMMARY: Many children and adults with intellectual disabilities, autism or other neurobehavioral disorders display severe behavior problems such as self-injury, aggression, or property destruction. The Neurobehavioral Unit (NBU) at Kennedy Krieger Institute provides a continuum of care for these individuals that includes a 16-bed inpatient program, outpatient program, and intensive outpatient services. The primary approach used is Applied Behavior Analysis, characterized by the application of principles of behavior derived through laboratory research, the objective measurement of behavior, and the systematic analysis of relations between behavior and environmental events. The NBU draws nationally, and is recognized as the premiere program in the nation for providing intensive behavioral treatment to individuals with severe behavior disorders and developmental disabilities as well as for offering advanced training in applied behavior analysis.

Research Interest

Neurology