Cardiac Psychology
Developing Resilient Kids and Families
When a child has a heart condition, it can affect more than just their physical health. They may feel different. They may be anxious or have a hard time coping after a diagnosis or procedure. They may also have trouble with attention, development or learning. Nemours Children’s pediatric cardiac psychologists can help.
Our team works within award-winning heart centers in Delaware and Florida to help kids with heart and vascular conditions grow up strong — in mind, body and spirit. We work to reduce the effects a child’s heart condition can have on the whole family. We’re here even before birth, empowering expectant parents to build a strong foundation for their babies’ healthiest life.
We partner closely with expert cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, electrophysiologists, fetal cardiologists, adult congenital cardiologists, interventional cardiologists and others and work with families from diagnosis and beyond. We’re integrated into your child’s heart team from the very start.
The Nemours cardiac psychology team includes nationally and internationally recognized leaders and researchers who shape the standard of care. Our care goes beyond medicine to improve all aspects of social, emotional and developmental wellness so kids with heart disease grow into healthy adults.
Our Services
Children with heart conditions can have a greater risk for mental health issues than their peers. That’s why we’re part of your child’s heart team.
We begin with a psychological or developmental assessment and, as a team, create a detailed care plan that fits your child’s needs. We can help your child and family:
- Adjust to a new diagnosis
- Improve development and learning after a heart procedure
- Reduce depression, anxiety or stress
- Feel confident in returning to school
- Remember to take medicines
- Feel comfortable living with an implanted heart device
- Improve quality of life
- Adjust after a heart transplant
- Transition to adult health care
Two Leading Pediatric Heart Centers
Our heart centers offer highly advanced, integrated care just for kids and young adults with congenital heart disease. Learn about our focused programs, innovative research and exceptional outcomes.
The more you know, the better you can help your child. Find out what happens during therapy from the experts at Nemours KidsHealth®.
Dealing with a serious illness can be hard for kids. Learn how to help your child cope with focused breathing, guided imagery and creative therapy.
When your child has special health care needs, you may feel overwhelmed at times. Find support and resources that can give you room to rest and rejuvenate.
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Conditions & Treatments
We see many conditions — far too many to list here. The conditions we treat vary depending on the location and providers selected. Don’t see a condition listed? Call us.
Related Specialties & Programs
Experts in Emotional and Developmental Health
Our cardiac psychologists have special training to help kids and families while in the hospital and well after. We have a deep understanding of heart disease, its effects, and what your child needs as they grow.
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Nationally recognized heart centers, in Delaware and Florida
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Cardiac psychologists within our system
2007
Year Nemours began offering cardiac-specific psychology care
Nemours is among the earliest programs to build cardiac-specific psychology support into the care for kids with heart disease. We have vast expertise.
We’re researching the emotional needs of families after diagnosis and use innovative tools and programs to meet them.
We’re integrated into the complete heart care your child receives. We’re here at every step.
Experts in Emotional and Developmental Health
Our cardiac psychologists have special training to help kids and families while in the hospital and well after. We have a deep understanding of heart disease, its affects, and what your child needs as they grow.
2
Nationally recognized heart centers, in Delaware and Florida
3
Cardiac psychologists within our system
2007
Year Nemours began offering cardiac-specific psychology care
Our Delaware Valley heart center is among the earliest programs to build cardiac-specific psychology support into the care for kids with heart disease. We have vast expertise.
Our team is awarded and recognized around the world for our neurodevelopmental research and outcomes and helps form the model of care for kids everywhere.
We’re researching the emotional needs of families after diagnosis and developing innovative tools and programs to meet them.
Meet the Team
Nemours cardiac psychology teams are experienced and focused on your child's healthiest future. Meet them now.
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Erica Dolores Sood, PhD
Psychology Director, Cardiac Learning and Development (LEAD) Associate Professor of Pediatric Psychology, Thomas Jefferson UniversityPrimary Office
Wilmington, DE
Convenient Follow-Up Appointments by Video
We offer follow-up appointments through scheduled, live video visits. You can avoid waiting rooms and save travel time. Ask your doctor if this is an option for your family.