Psychiatric Evaluation of Adolescent and Child Experiences (P.E.A.C.E.) Program
This program is designed to help youth ages 6-14 years old where there is concern for psychosis, which may include hearing voices, seeing things that are not there or believing things that are not true. We are the only program in NJ to currently provide this specialty service for youth in this age range and thus provide both in person and virtual care throughout the state.
Eligibility for the P.E.A.C.E. Program:
Any individual where there is concern for or established psychosis between the ages of 6 - 14 years old. We start with a thorough evaluation and if psychosis is present we will offer comprehensive care through our program. If psychosis is not present we will help with referrals to appropriate outside providers.
Psychosis Symptoms include:
- Hallucinations – People may hear, see, smell, taste or feel something that is not actually there.
- Delusions - Delusions are false beliefs that are firmly held and are out of keeping with the person’s cultural environment. A person may be truly convinced of a belief that is not shared by others, and even the most logical argument cannot change their mind
- Disorganized Speech, Thoughts, and/or Behavior: Disorganized speech might involve a person switching rapidly from one subject to the next, or being so garbled that speech is not comprehensible. People experiencing psychosis may have changes in their thinking patterns and may find it hard to concentrate and follow a conversation. Their thoughts may speed up, slow down or become jumbled, or they may not connect in a way that makes sense. Behavior also may be disorganized.
Treatment is individualized to the needs of the youth, but generally, components of treatment include:
- Case management:
Educational support, Close coordination with school, assistance with IEP, 504 or therapeutic placement. We can coordinate and provide care in conjunction with in home providers.
- Psychoeducation:
Extensive psychoeducation for both the patient and family. Clinical skills being utilized need to be reinforced over time and often in the home.
- Psychotherapy:
Individual therapy (CBT for psychosis), ERP for OCD, Family therapy, Behavioral Interventions, Relapse Prevention Plans
- Medication Management
Our clinic is located within the Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care system. We provide both in person and virtual appointments. Both sites available for in person appointments are the following:
- Northern Jersey Office
Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care
183 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103
-Central Jersey Office
Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care
667 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway NJ 08854
Our Contact Information:
P.E.A.C.E. Program Direct Line: (848) 863-4296
183 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103