We are continuing our “Profiles of Courage” series featuring the great work of our pediatric oncology & hematology doctors, nurses, care providers, and staff in the face of COVID-19. We hope you enjoy their stories as a source of hope and inspiration in these very uncertain times.
Dara Steinberg is a licensed clinical psychologist and psychosocial program director at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. During the COVID crisis, she is utilizing telehealth to provide clinical services to children with cancer and blood disorders and their families. Part of her work includes helping them cope with the “new normal” brought on by the pandemic.
“I have always been in awe of how resilient people can be, even in the worst of circumstances. I continue to see that as we come together as a community to help our patients, families, and team members.”
Many of our patient families look to Steinberg for comfort and encouragement. But she is thankful to have a great network of her own. “I am lucky to have the continued support of my coworkers, the Department of Pediatrics, and my colleagues in the clinical psychology field, as well as Hope & Heroes!”
Currently, Steinberg is currently studying the impacts of COVID19 on patients and providers. In collaboration with several departments and divisions at Columbia, along with several New York institutions, Steinberg hopes to understand how the pandemic is affecting patients and families. These findings will enable practitioners to better comprehend and address their clinical needs in the future.
Many thanks to Dr. Steinberg for helping maintain the overall health and well-being of our patients today and during the times ahead!
Have a story that you would like to share? We would love to hear from you! Send an email to Kadesha Washington at kw2718@cumc.columbia.edu.