Psychological home care for type II Schizencephaly: technical and theoretical aspects

Abstract

ABSTRACT Schizencephaly is an extremely rare developmental birth defect or malformation characterized by abnormal clefts in the cerebral hemispheres of the brain, extending from the cortex to the ventricles, which may be unilateral or bilateral. This case report describes the general characteristics of a psychological home care program, reporting the main theoretical and technical elements in a 12-years-old case of type II Schizencephaly. The aims of the psychological home treatment were acceptance of the new treatment reality, a reduction in aggression and anxiety, and psychological support for the patient and family. In the psychological home care, patient’s awareness of illness was developed, along with family orientation, psychoeducation, relaxation techniques, and cognitive distraction. It can be observed that a significant improvement in the affective and emotional state was achieved within the patient’s clinical framework.