IBD Service

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Service

IBD stands for inflammatory bowel disease. This is an umbrella term to describe disorders that cause chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The two most common forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. For some people, IBD is a mild illness. For others, it can be a debilitating condition that can lead to significant complications.

We are aware that rates of psychological distress are higher in the IBD population than the general population. The IBD Psychology service is dedicated to supporting SVUH patients presenting with psychological distress related to their IBD. The service can also help with pre-existing problems that might affect how people cope with and manage their IBD. The IBD Psychology service is the first of its kind in Ireland and as such has a strong research and audit focus.

What does the IBD Psychology service offer:

Patients referred to IBD Psychology are offered an initial consultation appointment as soon as possible. The consultation appointment is an opportunity to discuss the patient’s current concerns and agree what type of support would be the most helpful. The type of support recommended to each patient is determined on the basis of their specific needs as well as patient preferences. This may include group-based or individual interventions.

Group-based interventions focus on supporting IBD patients to develop new coping skills for managing challenging emotions and situations. Two types of group are offered: an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) group and a Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) group. Group-based interventions are for IBD patients specifically.
In 1:1 therapy, the approach will be tailored to your needs. The psychologist is trained in various approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed therapy.

How to access this service:

The IBD Psychology service is for SVUH patients only. Referrals can be made via the SVUH IBD team. Those interested are encouraged to speak with their IBD healthcare professional. Patients can also access further information about the IBD Psychology service from the Psychology Information Leaflets in the Herbert Wing waiting rooms.

Meet our psychologist

Dr Lisa Harpur, Senior Clinical Psychologist in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Lisa is a Senior Clinical Psychologist who provides a psychological service to patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in SVUH. The IBD Psychology service is dedicated to supporting IBD patients presenting with psychological distress related to their IBD. The service can also help with pre-existing problems that might affect how people cope with and manage their IBD. Interventions offered include consultations, individual therapy and group-based interventions. The IBD Psychology service is the first of its kind in Ireland and as such has a strong research and audit focus. Referrals to the IBD Psychology service can be made via the IBD team.

Lisa is passionate about supporting the psychological wellbeing of people with chronic illnesses. Lisa is trained in several psychotherapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Schema therapy, EMDR and Mindfulness-based approaches.

Lisa is a HSCP representative on the National Clinical Programme for Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Lisa has taught on the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in Trinity College Dublin and has supervised trainee clinical psychologists on hospital placements. Lisa is a chartered member of the Psychological Society of Ireland.