Mission and Goals

The purpose of the pediatric rheumatology special interest group (SIG) is to maintain a network of psychologists whose primary clinical and research efforts are vested in the psychosocial well-being of children diagnosed with pediatric rheumatic diseases (PRDs).

The overall goals of the SIG are to:

1. Define core competencies and standards for psychologists treating children affected by PRDs, as well as evidence-based methods for screening, assessment, and intervention.

2. Promote collaboration among pediatric psychologists working in pediatric rheumatology and connect with the larger pediatric rheumatology community and patient advocacy organizations.

3. Educate and train psychology learners about pediatric rheumatology and promote understanding of the role and function of pediatric psychologists in treating children affected by PRDs.

4. Generate collaborative research that promotes understanding of psychological outcomes and the interplay between physical and mental health in children affected by PRDs.

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Leadership

Alana Goldstein-Leever, PsyD - Co-Chair

Luke Turnier, PsyD - Co-Chair

Anusha Kakolu, PhD - Research and Intervention Chair

Katelyn Melcher - Student Representative

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Join

SPP invites members with a shared interest to consider joining one or more Special Interest Groups (SIGs) by logging into the Member Portal and going to "My SIGs and Affinity Groups" on the left-hand navigation.