Pediatric Social Work and Family Support Services

Connecting NJ Families with Resources, Guidance, and Support

When your child is facing a medical diagnosis or complex treatment plan, it can impact every part of your family’s life, from daily routines to emotional well-being. Our licensed clinical social workers are here to provide support, advocacy, and guidance every step of the way.

Located at both Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital in Hackensack, NJ and K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital in Neptune, NJ our social work team is part of your child’s care from the very beginning. We work closely with families and medical teams to help manage the emotional, social, and logistical challenges that come with a child’s illness or hospital stay.

How Our Social Workers Support Families

Our social workers take a family-centered approach, working with you and your child to understand what you’re going through and to help ease the path forward. Whether you're coping with a new diagnosis or navigating long-term care, we’re here to listen, advocate, and connect you to resources.

Support may include:

Psychosocial assessments
Individual or family counseling
Palliative care support
Grief and bereavement counseling
Help understanding medical conditions and treatment side effects
Referrals to school, mental health, and community resources

Social workers also serve as a bridge between your medical care team and home life, helping to coordinate services and guide families through moments of crisis or uncertainty.

Helpful Community Resources

Where to Find Us

Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center
30 Prospect Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601
551-996-4425

K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center
1945 Route 33, Neptune, NJ 07753
732-776-4245

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Common Questions About Pediatric Social Work Support

Families often have important questions about how our social workers can help. Below are answers to some of the most frequently searched topics by parents:

What does a pediatric social worker do?

A pediatric social worker is a licensed professional who supports families emotionally, socially, and practically when a child is facing a health challenge. At Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health, our social workers are part of your child’s care team from the very beginning. They help with everything from navigating the healthcare system to coping with emotional stress and accessing community support.

How can a social worker help my child and family during treatment?

Social workers can help your family in many ways throughout your child’s care journey. They offer emotional support, provide counseling for your child or family, and connect you to helpful services like financial aid, school accommodations, or mental health resources. They’re also trained to guide families through difficult situations, including serious diagnoses or end-of-life decisions, with compassion and clarity.

Is counseling available for siblings or other family members?

Our social work team understands that a child’s illness can affect the entire family, not just the patient. We offer counseling and support for siblings, parents, and caregivers to help everyone process what they’re going through. Whether it’s managing emotions, explaining a diagnosis to a sibling, or working through feelings of guilt or fear, we’re here to support the whole family.

Are there resources to help with financial or legal concerns?

Yes. Social workers can help connect you to trusted resources across New Jersey that may assist with insurance, housing, legal services, or other financial challenges. Whether you need help applying for New Jersey FamilyCare, exploring disability benefits, or finding local support programs, our team is here to guide you through it and reduce the stress that often comes with navigating these systems.

How do I get in touch with a social worker at the hospital?

If your child is receiving care at either Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital in Hackensack or K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital in Neptune, you can ask any member of your care team to connect you with a social worker. You can also call the numbers listed on this page to be connected directly. Social work services are provided at no cost to families.

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