Pediatric Psychology Research Lab
Lab Director and Clinical Supervisor: Lila Pereira, PhD
Description of Lab
Within the division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation at New York Medical College/Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, research is conducted focused on quality of life and issues of adjustment in Pediatric and Young Adult Hematology/Oncology patients. Research is often interdisciplinary and involves collaboration with other institutions both locally and across the country. Clinical activities are typically with patients ranging in age 3-39 in areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, and behavioral medicine. Trainees supporting the work of the lab range from undergraduate through fellowship level across multiple disciplines. The lab is located in Valhalla, NY on the NYMC campus. Additional lab and clinical activities takes place at Westchester Medical Center/Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital inpatient and outpatient locations (on NYMC campus or within 5 minute walk). The campus is accessible via Bee Line bus system within Westchester County. The closest train station is Metro North Valhalla, White Plains, or Tarrytown.
Studies often explore technology based methods of peer support for patients and families, AYA patient education, and transition from pediatric to adult care. Some studies incorporate the impact of social determinants of health on outcomes and how to show the benefits of having a psychologist on an integrated health team.
Studies range from new with IRB paperwork pending to well-established and data collection complete. Several are multi-site with grant (or seeking) support. As such there is much that a student can learn about with respect to the research process. There is an expectation students will be active in disseminating research throughout their time in lab with presentation/publication requirements. Dissertation topics may also be discussed with the opportunity to utilize current data, take ownership of current studies, or create new research commiserate with the mission and focus of the lab. Students interested in other areas of Pediatric Psychology outside of Hematology/Oncology are welcome.
Clinical Training
For those in their 4th year of the program, a Touro specific clinical training opportunity on site in Westchester exists. Clinical trainees see Pediatric and AYA Hematology and Oncology patients primarily in an outpatient setting through multiple tracks. The division is considered to be a fully integrated site with psychology playing a key role in care of all patients. Siblings are also seen. Students have the opportunity to participate in integrated clinics, seeing patients for consultation and brief treatment. Evidence based medicine is used with CBT (TF-CBT, CBT-CP, CBT-I), DBT, MI, PCIT/parent training, CPT, and ACT interventions being the primary modalities used. Opportunities to round in the hospital and participate in integrated team meetings are also expected. Another track is also available focusing on psychotherapy; this position must be applied for through the NYNJADOT system and it is open to all NYC area doctoral students.
Dr. Pereira may be contacted via lpereira2@nymc.edu for further discussion and application.
