The Marjorie E. Korff PACT (Parenting at a Challenging Time) program at the Mass General Cancer Center provides psycho-educational support for parents who are patients.
About the PACT Program
The program was founded in 1997 by child psychiatrist, Dr. Paula K. Rauch, to address the concerns that parents with cancer have about helping their children cope during the parent’s treatment, and with an understanding that some parents would not survive to see their children become adults. Built on the belief that parents are experts on the strengths and needs of their own children, this free service is available to all patients at the Cancer Center. Child psychiatrists or child psychologists meet privately with parents to understand what makes their children and family situation unique and work hand in hand with them to provide guidance. These experienced staff members can explain what parents might expect from their children, when to feel comfortable that a child is handling the situation, and when to intervene. Visit our website (available in both English and Spanish).
Meet the Team
The clinical team of the Marjorie E. Korff PACT Program is committed to providing professional and compassionate care to families who are facing the challenges of a parent’s serious illness. Each of the six members are fully trained as child psychiatrists or child psychologists, and has years of experience working with children and parents. The team's collective approach to serving the needs of families is enhanced by the diverse experiences and interests of each member, as well as by the strength and wisdom of the families who continue to teach us.
Learn how the PACT program works and meet the team.
This presentation from May 10, 2022, offers guidance to support the emotional health and well-being of children when a parent has cancer. Dr. Paula Rauch discusses parenting challenges from diagnosis through treatment and beyond as well as ways to facilitate communication with children.
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Supportive Care Services
Our support programs can help patients and their families cope with the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
Dr. Paula Rauch discusses parenting challenges from diagnosis through treatment and offers guidance to support the emotional health and well-being of children when a parent has cancer.