Transplant, Hepatology and Hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB) Psychology Service
There are a number of diseases that can affect the Liver and Pancreas, some of which may necessitate transplantation. The Psychology service in Transplant, Hepatology and HPB supports people living with acute and chronic liver disease, many of whom may be assessed for Transplant. The service works with people pre- and post-transplant, where their health condition is having a significant effect on their mental wellbeing and quality of life. The service also helps assess transplant candidates to provide support to the patient and to the Transplant team, to help ensure suitability and readiness for transplant.
What can I expect?
You will meet with a clinical psychologist for an assessment to discuss any concerns you may have about your health and wellbeing. Often people come to psychology for issues relating to low mood, anxiety, adjustment to their health condition, previous traumatic experiences, space to talk through important health decisions, preparing for transplant. A plan will be made with you about the level of support you would prefer and the number of sessions you require. Sometimes if your difficulties may be better suited to a community service e.g., bereavement, relationship or addiction counselling, the Psychologist would discuss making an onward referral for you.
The service also offers options to have sessions remotely via video call. The service also works with inpatients on St. Brigid’s Ward.
How can I be referred?
We receive referrals from all members of the Liver and Pancreas teams. Please talk to your medical team about a referral.
Meet our psychologist:
Dr Nicola Burke, Senior Clinical Psychologist in Transplant, Hepatology & Hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB) Directorate
Nicola is a Senior Clinical Psychologist working with multidisciplinary teams involved in Liver and Pancreas Transplant, as well as Hepatology and Hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB) services. Nicola provides a psychological service to patients undergoing assessment for transplant, as well as hepatology and HPB patients dealing with the psychological impact of their health condition. Nicola works with outpatients and also with inpatients on St. Brigid’s Ward (liver unit). Issues that may arise include increasing anxiety, low mood, difficulties adjusting to health issues, and trauma. Psychological work is tailored to the individual person and collaborative in nature, ranging from brief assessments to therapeutic interventions. Nicola is interested in supporting people living with significant health conditions and collaboratively finding ways to improve their quality of life.
Psychology referrals are made via Transplant, Hepatology and HPB teams. Please speak to your Consultant, Surgeon, Registrar, Transplant Co-ordinator or allied health professional within the service, if you are interested in a referral.