The treatment of craniofacial disorders requires the services of experts from multiple medical specialties and 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 individual 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 faculty member, Professor Frances Cooke Macgregor. Professor Macgregor is widely credited as being the first to document the profound social and psychological stresses faced by patients with facial difference and their families. View a PDF of "Goodbye to a Legend" 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 are available to meet with you to discuss such issues as self-esteem and well-being, peer relationships, child management skills, parent-child relationships, inter-family relationships, and emotional and behavioral adjustments. Patients and families at the Institute receive or are referred for evaluation, guidance, and counseling when possible problems are identified or the patient or family requests this kind of assistance. Patients and families are often pleased to learn that there is a psychosocial team with whom they can discuss the complex emotional issues that can emerge.
The Newman Psychosocial Team at the Institute provides patients and families with guidance regarding such problems as behavioral management, teasing, rejection, public attitudes, concerns regarding all aspects of surgical procedures, and emotional adaptation to a changing appearance. The Newman Psychosocial Team works along with the Medical Team at the Institute so that there is a coordinated effort through the course of the treatment to help you with any issues that may arise over the course of time. The Newman 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, as are referrals to other appropriate community organizations, if requested.
Clinical Psychologist: Aileen Blitz, Ph.D.
Telephone: 212-263-5834 or 212-254-0150
Email: aileen.blitz@med.nyu.edu
Clinic Coordinator: Patricia Chibbaro, R.N., C.P.N.P.
Nurse Practitioner
Telephone: 212-263-5205
Email: patricia.chibbaro@med.nyu.edu
Licensed Clinical Social Worker: Dennis Sklenar, LCSW
Telephone: 212-263-5018
Email: dennis.sklenar@nyumc.org
This Program would not be possible without the unwavering generosity of the Newman Family.