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The paediatric clinical psychologists are able to help children, young people and their families/carers in several ways.

You can contact a psychologist directly by calling 0207 351 8251 or 0207 352 8121 ext 4131. You can also speak to a member of staff on the paediatric wards or outpatients departments who will be able to put you in touch with a member of the team.

What is a paediatric clinical psychologist?

Clinical psychologists have special knowledge about child development and learning. They have also studied the types of difficulties that children and families may experience when a member of the family has a health problem. We do not prescribe medication or perform any physical examinations.

Where do we work?

  • Rose ward
  • Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (Amanda Jones Ward)
  • High Dependency Unit
  • Outpatient clinics
  • School or home visits.

What do we do?

We help children, young people and their families/carers mostly but not always in times of difficulty. We listen and talk with you and try to find a helpful way forward. We will ask you what you want; it may involve working with a whole family or with a child or parent/carer alone. Our aim is to improve the quality of life for the person with a medical condition and their family.

Examples of the help or advice a clinical psychologist can offer?

  • Planning for and having medical procedures and treatment (e.g. blood tests or taking medicines)
  • Preparing for and coping with change (e.g. moving school)
  • Behaviour difficulties which may or may not be because of the physical illness (e.g. feeding or toileting)
  • Mood problems
  • School/learning at school difficulties
  • Answering questions put by the child or others about their medical condition
  • Managing challenging treatments or situations so that life can be as ordinary as possible
  • The role of parents/carers in a medical setting
  • Parents/carers or family worries about the child's medical condition or treatment.
  • The needs of other family members including partners and other children.

What will happen when you come to see a paediatric clinical psychologist?

First we like to meet with the child and their parents/carers. It is very helpful to find out about you/your child and their life. Then together we think about your or others' concerns and what might be helpful. To do this we ask you questions and may keep a record of behaviour or feelings. We may also use some special puzzles and games. We then plan the next step. This may involve cognitive-behavioural therapy, counselling, family work, relaxation, pain management. We may refer you to a Psychology Service nearer to your home. Parental/carer consent will always be required prior to any work. If you have any questions about our service, we are happy to answer them.

Confidentiality

We have strict rules about confidentiality. We only share information with your referrer if you say we can. We will not discuss your concerns with anyone else. However if we become worried that a child is at risk, we are legally bound to contact the relevant agencies.