What do psychologists do?

We are often asked to meet with children and their families. This is usually because they are having a tough time in one way or another. Meeting with a psychologist gives people a chance to think and talk about things and to come up with some new ideas for managing any difficulties. It may also help them understand a bit better about how each person in the family is feeling.

We are often asked to meet with children or young people if they are feeling quite afraid, worried or sad. We can help them think of ways of reducing any stress in their life and any other factors that might be affecting their wellbeing.

We can talk through any illness or treatment that a child might be having to help them understand it a bit better. We can also help them think of ways of feeling brave when they need to have medical procedures which they might be worried about.

If children have had an illness or an injury which has affected their learning skills, we can often assess what aspects they might need some support with in school. Then we can talk to parents and teachers so everyone understands what the best course of action is.

We work as part of the hospital team, alongside doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and social workers. We don't give people tablets to take, or injections, or do any physical examinations.