At Levine Children's Hospital, clinical social workers are an important part of the medical team. Social workers help families cope with the stress that is associated with the diagnosis and treatment of many illnesses and disorders. We believe that treating the emotional and social issues is an essential part of the overall treatment. By completing a psychosocial assessment, social workers can assist with the day to day issues that many families face while hospitalized, as well as the unexpected needs that may arise.

Social workers can also help by:

• Assisting parents and their children with understanding that illness and hospitalization affects the entire family system.
• Counseling families confronted with social and financial difficulties.
• Providing information and referrals to community resources for treatment and support.
• Helping families in crisis situations by providing crisis or grief counseling.
• Ensuring a safe and healthy transition to the community upon discharge.