Delaware Psychological Services office and the Pediatric and Adolescent Center in Milton have combined their resources and created an all-in-one stop for adolescents who have  adverse childhood experiences. 

Since May, Delaware Psychological Services in Lewes has transitioned part of its team to the Pediatric and Adolescent Center in Milton on a permanent basis. This conversion is designed to ensure the best quality care for children dealing with hardships and to provide behavioral health services in the pediatrics office. 

The three types of adverse experiences are abuse, neglect and household dysfunction. 

“We have a lot of teens with depression and sleep issues,” said Jay Ludwicki, MD. The important thing to do is to measure outcomes and to be proactive and to determine the symptoms of an adolescence with adverse childhood experiences.” 

Typically, the process takes 12-14 weeks. In this process, not only do the personnel at the Pediatric and Adolescent Center in Milton assist children in need, but they are also coaching parents and grandparents. “A lot of kids in this area are in the care of grandparents.” Ludwicki said. They will be teaching parents and grandparents positive parenting, where it is child centered, yet parent directed. 

Delaware Psychological Services is pursuing a grant opportunity to expand this program,” said Katie Elder, Ph.D. 

To learn more about the Delaware Psychological Services, go to www.delawarepsychologicalservices.com.