Psychiatry Consultation Service

Resources and support

When your child is admitted to the hospital with a serious medical illness, the questions, acronyms and sense of worry can seem endless—and sometimes overwhelming. Browse through the sections below for some helpful information that can give you the answers, advice and support you're looking for.
 

Patient resources at Children's

• Children’s Complex Care Services deliver essential medical care to children with birth defects, genetic disorders and other multifaceted health care needs. Please call 617-355-6162 for more information.

• The Experience Journal was designed by Children’s psychiatrist-in-chief David DeMaso, MD, and members of his team. This online collection features thoughts, reflections and advice from kids and caregivers about going through a variety of medical and emotional experiences.

• Children’s Center for Families is dedicated to helping families locate the information and resources they need to better understand their child’s particular condition and take part in their care. All patients, families and health professionals are welcome to use the Center’s services at no extra cost. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please call 617-355-6279 for more information.

• The Children’s chaplaincy is a source of spiritual support for parents and family members. Our program includes nearly a dozen clergy members—representing Episcopal, Jewish, Lutheran, Muslim, Roman Catholic, Unitarian and United Church of Christ traditions—who will listen to you, pray with you and help you observe your own faith practices during your child’s treatment.
   
• Children's International Center is a dedicated resource for patients and families from countries outside the United States. The center can provide assistance with everything from reviewing medical records to setting up appointments and locating lodging. Contact the center by phone at 01-617-355-5209 or via e-mail at international.center@childrens.harvard.edu.

• For children and families affected by life-threatening illness, our Pediatric Advanced Care Team (PACT) is available to provide supportive treatments intended to optimize the quality of life and promote healing and comfort. In addition, PACT can provide emotional support and help arrange end-of-life care when necessary. Please visit the PACT web page or call 617-632-5042 for more information.

• Children’s Department of Psychiatry offers a free booklet, “Helping Your Child with Medical Experiences: A Practical Parent Guide”. (Please note that Adobe Acrobat is required to view and download the guide.) Topics in the booklet include:
  • talking to your child about his or her condition
  • preparing for surgery and hospitalization
  • supporting siblings
  • taking care of yourself during your child’s illness
  • adjusting to life after treatment