PHX Reporter

Phoenix Children's Hospital has received Sanctuary Certification from the ANDRUS Sanctuary Institute, recognizing its trauma-informed care environment. This certification highlights the hospital's dedication to addressing trauma's impact on health and behavior through systemic interventions.

Rhonda Thompson, senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing executive, stated, "This certification underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional, compassionate care to our patients and families." She emphasized that by integrating the Sanctuary Model into daily practices, the hospital is fostering an environment conducive to healing and recovery.

The Sanctuary Model is a framework aimed at creating trauma-informed organizations by focusing on safety, emotional intelligence, and shared decision-making. The certification process involved a thorough review by Sanctuary Institute faculty, including interviews and program observations.

The recognition particularly emphasizes the leadership of Phoenix Children's Inpatient Pediatric Psychiatry Unit. The unit employs a multidisciplinary team offering various services such as therapy, medication management, and parent education. Thompson noted the team's dedication: "Achieving this certification has been a true labor of love for the entire inpatient psychiatry team."

Phoenix Children's has long been committed to trauma-informed principles. The certification evaluation highlighted several strengths: a culture of trauma-informed care within the unit's practices, an engaged team focused on patient well-being, a supportive physical environment, and a clear narrative of progress with the Sanctuary Model.

With this achievement, Phoenix Children's strengthens its position as a leader in pediatric mental health care. U.S. News & World Report recognized it in 2024 among the Top 50 Children’s & Adolescent Behavioral Health facilities.