SIBSPlace Therapeutic Purpose
SIBSPlace follows a psychosocial support model based in prevention theory, where focus is placed on the challenges the well sibling faces in coping with their emotional response to having a brother, sister or parent with cancer or another devastating illness. Living with an ill loved one puts these children at risk for intense anxiety, mostly due to the loss of control of their home situation. Through art, music and verbal activities the SIBSPlace program designs opportunities for the children to build meaningful relationships, externalize feelings and have them validated while connecting with peers living through similar circumstances.
Prevention theory demonstrates that children who are able to express feelings, problem solve, and reduce their stress level tend to become more functional and competent as adults. Motivated by studies that indicate that the well sibling struggles with feelings of fear, sadness, anger, loss of control, anxiety, abandonment, isolation, jealousy and guilt, we encourage the children at SIBSPlace to utilize peer support to share feelings and concerns about their ill or disabled sibling. Through planned activities facilitated by professional staff, curriculum is geared to promote resiliency while improving emotional vocabulary, self-expression and self-awareness.
While attending the SIBSPlace program, participants are provided with opportunities for empowerment to help build self-esteem and self-worth. As the children engage in an array of enriching activities, problem-solving techniques are explored, and coping skills are fostered to increase the children’s sense of power and control and reduce their feelings of anxiety. The provision of consistent routines and traditions each program evening, reinforces stability, again, decreasing anxiety.
Actually, SIBSPlace is like having an extended family. Children are encouraged to have fun, while they are being supported through their growth and development.
Our program exists to enhance the lives of our SIBS kids so they always remember feeling special and important by those who took the time to listen, to hear and to care.
If you are interested in learning more about SIBSPlace, please contact
Suzanne Kornblatt, LMSW, at (516) 374-3000.
“SIBSPlace…A Place Where A Child Matters Most!”
SIBSPlace • 1420 Broadway • Hewlett, NY 11557 • (516) 374-3000 • sibsplace.org