The treatment of craniofacial disorders requires the services of experts from multiple medical specialties or disciplines. Consequently, patient care at the institute is multidisciplinary and comprehensive.

The philosophy of the Institute has always been that excellent surgical outcomes alone are insufficient; the goal is that each child should develop a healthy self-image and the confidence to pursue a full and rewarding life. The Institute has a distinguished history of caring for the psychological and social needs of the patient and their families, dating from the 1940's with the work of former facility member, Professor Frances Cooke Macgregor. Professor Macgregor is widely credited as being the first to document the profound social and psychological stresses faced by the families and patients with facial difference.

Therefore, the accomplishment of the goals of treatment of the patient with a facial difference requires periodic assessment of the psychosocial needs of both the patient and the family as part of the comprehensive care they receive at the Institute. Members of the Psychosocial Team at the Institute are available to meet with you to discuss issues such as child management skills, parent-child relationships, and the emotional and behavioral adjustment of the child. Families at the Institute receive or are referred for evaluation, guidance, and counseling when possible problems are identified or the family requests this kind of assistance.

The Psychosocial Team at the Institute provides families with guidance regarding such problems as behavioral management, teasing, rejection, public attitudes, concerns regarding all aspects of surgical procedures, and emotional adaptation to treatment. The Psychosocial Team works along with the Medical Team at the Institute so that there is a coordinated effort throughout the course of the treatment to help you with any issues that may arise over the course of time. The Psychosocial Team can also facilitate contact with other families, children or adults that have a similar medical problem by referral to support groups and networking. Referrals for vocational training and guidance are also available.

Clinical Psychologist: Aileen Blitz, P.H.D.
Tel: (212) 645 3432
Fax: (212) 263 5834

Program Coordinator:
Patricia Chibbaro, R.N., C.P.N.P.
Tel: (212) 263-5205
patricia.chibbaro@med.nyu.edu

Social Worker: Dennis Sklenar, C.S.W.
Tel: (212) 263-5018
dennis.sklenar@med.nyu.edu