Our Staff

The Children's Neurology and Epilepsy Center, based at Saint Clare's Hospital/Denville is directed by pediatric neurologists who are acknowledged as leaders in their field.

Sandy P. Waran, M. D., the medical director, has more than 25 years experience and has treated thousands of children in northwest New Jersey. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Waran has conducted research, written, and lectured on pediatric neurological disorders. He holds certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology with specialization in child neurology, the American Board of Clinical Neurophysiology, and the American Board of Pediatrics. In addition to the Children's Neurology and Epilepsy Center at Saint Clare's, Dr. Waran maintains the Children's Neurology Center, a private practice in Morris County.

Trevor DeSouza, M.D., associate director, has served as an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey/New Jersey Medical School. In 1998 and again in 2002, Dr. DeSouza was honored as being among "The Best Doctors in America" in a survey conducted by Woodward/White Inc. He holds certifications from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology with specialization in child neurology and the American Board of Pediatrics. Dr. DeSouza practices with Dr. Waran at the Children's Neurology and Epilepsy Center at Saint Clare's as well as the Children's Neurology Center in Morris County.

Leonid Topper, M.D., pediatric neurologist, has served as the attending pediatric neurology physician for the Brain Tumor Center at the Schneider Children's Hospital in New York. He has extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of children with seizures and epilepsy, headaches, brain infections, stroke, tics and Tourette syndrome, nerve and muscle conditions, autistic disorders, ADHD, and neonatal brain problems. He is board certified in both pediatric and adult neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and holds membership in the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health in the United Kingdom. Dr. Topper practices with Dr. Waran and Dr. DeSouza at The Children's Neurology and Epilepsy Program at Saint Clare's as well as the Children's Neurology Center in Morris County.

Sandra Pressimone BS, MPA, R.EEG, T, neurodiagnostic coordinator, is a qualified registered technologist with over nine years of experience working with children. Sandra works with the physician and your child to accomplish testing without the need for sedation.

Pediatric Nurses: Our team of pediatric nurses has received specialized training in the care of children with epilepsy. We pride ourselves on our "high tech" and "high touch" atmosphere, and we promote a family-friendly environment. In addition, our Advanced Practice Nurse works closely with pediatric nursing staff, physicians, and families to ensure that the best possible care is given to your child.

Pediatric Hospitalists: Saint Clare's Hospital/Denville has a pediatrician present in the hospital 24 hours a day to handle any pediatric emergency that might arise. Pediatric hospitalists are trained, qualified, board-certified pediatricians, not resident physicians in training.