Our History
Intensive Care Nursery of Georgetown University Hospital, 1972.
Thrive Center represents a continuation of the work of the Georgetown University Center for Child and Human Development (GUCCHD).
For over 50 years, GUCCHD supported marginalized groups and worked to create a more inclusive society. The center focused on health disparities, special health needs, behavioral challenges in children and youth, and disabilities, emphasizing gender issues and cultural competence.
A Tribute to GUCCHD Founder Phyllis R. Magrab, PhD
Learn about the career and accomplishments of Phyllis Magrab, PhD, endowed professor of pediatrics at Georgetown and GUCCHD founding director.
GUCCHD has been the leader over the last three decades in the development of theoretical frameworks, seminal documents, national centers and a model of Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation model (IECMHC), a prevention-based approach where highly-trained mental health consultants are paired with adults working in early childhood settings and equip them with evidence-based skills to facilitate children’s healthy social and emotional development. It is nationally recognized by the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs (AMCHP) as a best practice. Learn more about IECMHC.
GUCCHD has driven major service changes, promoting family-centered care and medical homes, and championed culturally competent services with family partners. The center played a key role in closing Forest Haven, an archaic residential institution serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and transitioning residents to community living. The center continued to ensure quality services as a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD).
The Story of Forest Haven
GUCCHD played a key role in closing Forest Haven, an archaic residential institution serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and transitioning residents to community living.
Globally, GUCCHD influenced early childhood education reforms in over 30 Central and Eastern European countries. In 2020, the center expanded to address gender and health issues, focusing on social norms, reproductive health and gender-based violence.
Thrive Center builds on this legacy of professional excellence and service.