Oncology/Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Behavioral Health Services

As a member of the Oncology/BMT teams at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, the psychologist for these units provides:

  • Ongoing behavioral health services for children and families in need.
  • Assessments and management of acute needs as they arise.

Kids under the care of the Oncology/BMT teams may present with stress due to health problems, medical tests, and treatments.

Along with stress, they may also suffer from psychological conditions such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • ADHD
  • Learning disabilities

These behavioral and mental health issues require distinct treatment plans and intervention tactics.

Mental Health Support and Therapy for Children with Cancer

The psychologist offers children in the cancer and BMT units:

  • Techniques to manage stress
  • Strategies to balance emotions
  • Methods to explore mind and body connections
  • Family systems therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Insight-oriented therapy
  • Child-centered play therapy
  • Learning tools and resources

Knowing how both psychological and medical conditions affect the family structure is vital to ongoing treatment planning. We also offer support for family members and caregivers when useful.

The psychologist also works closely with the:

  • Pediatric Cancer Survivorship Clinic
  • Supportive Care Program at Children's Hospital