Psychology

Psychology

Our Psychology department includes formally trained and licensed pediatric psychologists who are focused on promoting the health and well-being of children and adolescents with chronic illnesses or complex medical conditions. Our team applies their training as clinical health psychologists to the physical, social and emotional needs of pediatric patients. Direct clinical inpatient and outpatient services are provided to Scottish Rite patients, along with their families and caregivers. We also have a team of dedicated mental health navigators whose primary role is managing our screening and response processes for patients at risk of self-harm. While our psychologists are primarily involved in clinical care, they also contribute to research and provide training to future pediatric psychologists, medical trainees and allied health professionals.

 

ABOUT OUR PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES

As trained scientist-practitioners, our psychologists are actively involved in research that explores:

  • The psychosocial impact of physical health conditions and treatment
  • Ways to improve the treatment experience

They regularly share research findings at state, national and international conferences and publish in leading professional journals. Through research, they aim to advance psychosocial care within pediatric orthopedics, rheumatology, neurology and psychology.

Experiencing suicidal thinking can be a scary experience. Talking with others about suicidal thoughts can be challenging, as well. Talking about suicide does not increase a person's likelihood to have or act on such thoughts. In fact, seeking support and talking about suicide can have a positive effect on the person who is experiencing it. Please seek support right away if you believe the danger is immediate and as soon as possible if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts. Use the resources on this card as a guide to help you.

If you or someone you know may be a danger to themselves or someone else:

  • Go to the nearest emergency room
  • Call 911

Thinking About Suicide? Please Call: Local Crisis Hotlines Available 24/7

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call: 988
suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Crisis Text Line
Text ’HOME’ to 741741 free 24/7 crisistextline.org

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ suicide help)

  • Call: 866-488-7386
  • Text: 202-304-1200
  • Trevor Project online chat: thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now

Texas Health and Human Services Call: 211, Option 8 • 211texas.org

Our Experts

Jill M. West, Ph.D.

Jill M. West, Ph.D.

Director, Psychology Department
Emily Gale, Ph.D., L.P., ABPP

Emily Gale, Ph.D., L.P., ABPP

Pediatric Psychologist
Whitney Herge, Ph.D.

Whitney Herge, Ph.D.

Pediatric Psychologist
Caroline Roberts, Ph.D.

Caroline Roberts, Ph.D.

Pediatric Psychologist
Emily Stapleton, Psy.D.

Emily Stapleton, Psy.D.

Pediatric Psychologist

Latest news: Psychology