Dr. Dr. Maria Cecilia V. Rivera-Amisola, MD

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A Champion for Developmental Pediatrics at Dayton Children’s Hospital Advancing Patient Care, Empowering Families, and Transforming Lives

Dayton, Ohio – Dr. Maria Cecilia Rivera-Amisola, an accomplished pediatrician, is a leading voice in developmental pediatrics, combining expertise, compassion, and dedication in her work at Dayton Children’s Hospital. As an attending physician in the Developmental Pediatrics Clinic, she provides specialized care for children with developmental disabilities, offering support not only to her patients but also to their families. Additionally, she serves as an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, where she contributes to shaping the next generation of pediatricians through her active involvement in resident education.

Dr. Rivera-Amisola began her medical journey at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines. She then completed her pediatric residency at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in New York, where her leadership and dedication earned her the role of Chief Resident from 1996 to 1997. Following her residency, she pursued a fellowship in Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Schneider Children’s Hospital, part of the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System (now Cohen Children’s Medical Center of New York), where she stayed on as an attending before relocating to Dayton, OH in 2004. Dr. Rivera-Amisola is board-certified in General Pediatrics and a proud Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Throughout her remarkable career, Dr. Rivera-Amisola has been recognized for her selfless dedication to the care of children and their families affected by autism spectrum disorder, developmental delays, disruptive behavior disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other neurodevelopmental disorders. In 2012, she was honored with the Dr. Harold F. Hilty Humanitarian Award from the United Rehabilitation Services of Greater Dayton for her commitment to improving the lives of children with developmental challenges. She is also an active member of prestigious professional organizations, including the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Society for Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics. Previously, she was involved with the Association of Philippine Physicians in Greater Dayton.

Dr. Rivera-Amisola’s passion for developmental pediatrics stems from a profound belief in the inherent abilities and potential of every child. “Working in this field is more than a career—it’s a calling,” she shares. “It is both challenging and deeply rewarding. Children with developmental disabilities hold a special place in my heart. I believe they possess their own unique strengths, talents, and gifts.”

Her philosophy of care revolves around hope and empowerment. “When a child’s future seems uncertain to their parents, it’s our job to help them envision a brighter path forward,” she emphasizes. “My role is to guide families, point them in the right direction, and walk alongside them as they navigate their journey toward a better future.”

Dr. Rivera-Amisola chose to join Dayton Children’s Hospital because of its unwavering dedication to providing compassionate care to all families, regardless of their socioeconomic circumstances. Reflecting on her personal journey, she explains, “I loved my early years in the Big Apple, but I wanted to raise my children in an environment where they could climb trees, walk barefoot on green grass, and build snowmen in fresh snow. Dayton offered the perfect balance—a community-centered environment that aligns with my professional and personal values.”

Through her work, Dr. Rivera-Amisola continues to inspire and empower families, creating lasting impacts in the lives of children with developmental disabilities. Her commitment to compassionate patient-centered care exemplifies the mission of Dayton Children’s Hospital, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. 

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