The children’s epilepsy psychology service is based in Harrogate. Dr Claire Panayi (Clinical Psychologist) works with the children’s epilepsy team on Mondays. She is based in the Child Development Centre at Harrogate Hospital.
Claire works with children, young people and their families until they transition into adult services at age 16. Common reasons why children or their families might want to see the psychologist:
- adjusting to a diagnosis of epilepsy
- difficulties managing medication or seizures
- anxiety, low mood or identity issues related to epilepsy
- understanding changes in behaviour
- feeling different to others because of epilepsy
Making a referral
Families can ask any member of the epilepsy team to make a referral to psychology. The team will then write to Claire to explain what your child/ family is struggling with and what changes you’d like to see. There is often more demand than our psychology team are able to meet, so we operate a waiting list system. Our psychology team work closely with the epilepsy team to try and prioritise resource in the best way. We can also offer one-off appointments to do an initial assessment to ensure that you are getting the right support at the right time..
Epilepsy Resources
Young Epilepsy: is a UK charity working on behalf of children and young people with epilepsy. They provide lots of information, including:
- What is epilepsy; causes , treatment, seizure triggers and living with epilepsy
- Information for young people
- Information for parents and care givers
Main number: 01342 832 243 (Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm)
Helpline: 01342 831 342 (Mon-Fri 9am-3pm)
Email: [email protected]
Epilepsy Action can help support you and your loved ones, with trained advisors to provide the answers and resources you need.
Main number: 0808 800 5050 (Monday-Thursday 8.30am-7pm, Friday 8.30am-4.30pm and Saturday 10am-4pm)
Text: 0747 963 8071 (Aim to reply within 24 hours on working days)
Email: [email protected]
The Epilepsy Society provide lots of information on some of the practical and financial services and support available to people with epilepsy and people who care for them. They have a confidential helpline available for anyone affected by epilepsy.
Main number: 0300 102 0024