ZELIG Center: A mental health radar for young people
The ZELIG Center, part of the H.U.B., provides specialized care for young people experiencing psychological distress, thanks to a multidisciplinary team of child psychiatrists, psychologists, and healthcare professionals. Located on the Erasme Hospital site in Anderlecht (Brussels), the center is dedicated to early detection and rapid intervention to support adolescents and young adults.
In a time when many young people face invisible struggles and growing distress, the ZELIG Center stands as a key player in the prevention and treatment of mental health disorders. Affiliated with the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service, led by Professor Véronique Delvenne, and located on the Erasme Hospital site (H.U.B.) in Anderlecht, this outpatient center intervenes at a critical juncture: between the ages of 12 and 21, when nearly 60% of psychiatric disorders emerge. This pivotal period requires focused attention in terms of both prevention and intervention.
The name "ZELIG" refers to the eponymous film by Woody Allen, which addresses questions of identity and social conformity. Like this chameleon-like character, the center aims to understand and support young people on their life journey
A Meaningful Name
The name "ZELIG" refers to Woody Allen's film of the same name, which explores themes of identity and social conformity. Like the chameleon-like character in the film, the center strives to understand and support young people on their life journey. Additionally, "ZELIG" is an acronym that reflects the center's philosophy: Zoom, Essence, Links, Individuals, Group—a framework that places young people's well-being and social interactions at the heart of its mission. By intervening early, ZELIG provides young people with the tools to overcome challenges and regain balance at a crucial stage in their development.
Early Detection, Rapid Intervention
Under the guidance of Dr. Simone Marchini, a child psychiatrist, ZELIG aims to detect the early signs of psychiatric disorders before they escalate. Too often, diagnoses are delayed, complicating treatment. ZELIG seeks to reverse this trend by addressing the first signs of psychological distress, thereby preventing further mental health deterioration.
A Multidisciplinary Team Dedicated to Youth
To fulfill this ambitious mission, ZELIG relies on a multidisciplinary team that includes child psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, and educators. A “peer mentor”—a trained patient-partner who supports young people—is also part of the team, providing valuable support grounded in shared experience. This diverse range of expertise enables ZELIG to offer personalized care tailored to each young person's unique needs.
By stepping in early, ZELIG equips young people with the tools to overcome their challenges and find balance at a pivotal time in their development
everyday allies: guardians of mental health
The early detection of psychiatric disorders isn’t solely the center’s responsibility; it also relies on the “allies” in a young person’s daily life—parents, teachers, sports coaches, and general practitioners. These key figures are often the first to notice signs of distress and can reach out to ZELIG, enabling swift and effective support.
personalized, time-sensitive care
The ZELIG Center provides rapid, well-rounded care focused on three core elements: the individual, the group, and the support network. Individual follow-up allows for care that’s precisely tailored to each young person’s unique needs, while group sessions foster peer connections, helping to break isolation. Involving close contacts—parents or trusted supporters—ensures that care continues seamlessly beyond the center.
a complete support model: from detection to recovery
ZELIG’s role goes far beyond initial detection. The center ensures that each young person receives comprehensive, ongoing support throughout their journey. When necessary, patients are referred to specialized therapists for extended care, creating a coordinated pathway from diagnosis through to recovery.
an essential model for today’s challenges
In a time when young people’s mental health is increasingly vulnerable, the ZELIG Center, with its proactive approach and diverse team, provides a meaningful response to today’s mental health needs. By intervening early, ZELIG equips young people with the tools to overcome challenges and regain balance at a crucial stage in their development.
contact information
Phone: +32 (0)2 555 80 04
Email: zelig [dot] pij [at] hubruxelles [dot] be
Brochure
Team:
Dr. Simone Marchini: child psychiatrist, medical director
PG: child psychiatrist in training
2 clinical psychologists:
- Lina Regragui, specializing in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy)
- Sami Adhami, specializing in a systemic approach
Neuropsychologist: Ella Ben-Shaool
2 specialized nurses:
- Natalia Palozova Delaitre
- Déborah Morchoisne
Specialized educator: Steven Nicaise
"Pair Aidant" intern: (peer support partner, trained over 2 years with the Plateforme Bruxelloise de Santé Mentale)