Pediatric Behavioral Health

Our Services

Knowing the brain to understand the mind.

At the Brain Care Institute at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, 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.