Pediatric Behavioral Health

At the Brain Care Institute at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, we treat the whole child — not just his or her physical symptoms. We work with children, their families, and caregivers to enhance their natural coping skills and address the distinctive behavioral, emotional, or social facets of their physical illness.

Through assessment and collaboration with the primary medical team, we develop a cohesive treatment plan that:

• Evaluates bio-behavioral aspects of primary illness along the road from diagnosis to post-recovery
• Works with patients, families, and caregivers on skills to manage both the emotional and physical struggles that come with living with an illness
• Assists in developing the tools children and their families need to work through the acute phase of a child’s condition
• Manages emotional and physical pain in a developmentally appropriate manner
• Offers support and guidance to manage stressful normal or abnormal reactions to illness
• Identifies psychopathology when present, and crafts individualized multidisciplinary treatment recommendations
• Incorporates psycho-education, supportive psychotherapy, relaxation training, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychopharmacology
• Combines individual treatments, family-based treatments, and community resources as indicated 

Referral Requirements

Referrals are required from primary care physicians or other Children's Hospital specialty services. Patients enrolled in managed care insurance plans also may require authorization. In many instances our Pediatric Behavioral Health Service will be available to see patients while in hospital or along with your medical visits. For more information, please call 412-692-5100.