Hematology/Oncology Psychology Externship
This externship is ideally suited for advanced clinical students seeking comprehensive training in pediatric psychology. Externs will spend two days per week providing psychological services to children and adolescents with cancer or blood disorders and their families. Clinical activities will be carried out under the direct supervision of pediatric psychologists Steven Hardy, Ph.D., Dana Footer, Psy.D., Megan Connolly, Ph.D., and Stephanie Merwin, Ph.D.
The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s National Hospital includes both outpatient and inpatient services for children diagnosed with cancer, hematologic disorders such as sickle cell disease, and other malignant and non-malignant disorders. Physicians, psychologists, nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers and other psychosocial team members work collaboratively to address the complex problems faced by these patients and their families. Presenting issues include coping and adjustment with diagnosis and treatment, anxiety (generalized, anticipatory, and procedural), depression, behavior problems, nonadherence to medical treatment, pain exacerbated by psychological stressors and grief/loss.