Emotional scars can last just as long and bring as much pain as those that are physical. That is why Saint Peter's offers patients and families special care programs to help them cope with their particular situations.
Child Abuse Treatment
The
Dorothy B. Hersh Regional Child Protection Center evaluates, treats and prevents physical and emotional injuries caused by physical and sexual abuse, including medical neglect. Saint Peter's is one of only four state-designated centers for the treatment and prevention of child abuse.
Child Life Program
The
Child Life Program helps children and families prepare for their hospital stays. Before admission, a Tot Tour can be taken to become familiar with the pediatric unit. Children visit the Dr. George Brennan Playroom to learn about treatments and address their fears through play.
SHARE
Families touched by the tragic loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death receive emotional, spiritual and social support through the program. SHARE provides information, educational and resources for bereaved parents and siblings.
Social Work Discharge Planning Services
Our discharge planners help children and families cope with the emotional, financial and social impacts of illness. They provide support, education and links to needed resources, as well as discharge planning services.
Speech and Language Program
Diagnostic and rehabilitation services are offered to children with delayed speech or poor language skills. Services include augmentative/alternative communication evaluation, intervention for cognitive and communication disorders, swallowing disorder management, and voice evaluation and training. Audiology services include specialized infant hearing testing, hearing aid assessment, electrophysiological assessment, and lip reading and aural rehabilitation.
