Paediatric Epilepsy Psychology
On this page
1. About us
The Paediatric Epilepsy Psychology Service supports children and young people with epilepsy, and their families, to understand and manage the emotional, behavioural, cognitive and social impact of living with epilepsy.
We recognise that epilepsy can affect many areas of a child's life, including their confidence, mood, behaviour, relationships, school experience and learning. Our aim is to help young people and their families develop strategies to manage these challenges and improve their wellbeing and quality of life.
Currently we provide psychological support for
- Children and young people (up to 18 years old) in Calderdale under the care of the paediatric epilepsy team.
- Parents and carers who are finding their child’s epilepsy is impacting them emotionally.
2. Paediatric Epilepsy Psychology Team
Dr Poppy Siddell, Senior Clinical Psychologist
Isabel Blacker, Secretary
Our team may also work alongside other professionals involved in your child's care, including the consultants, epilepsy specialist nurses, schools and community services.
3. What to expect at your appointment
Your first appointment is an opportunity for us to get to know you and your child and to understand how epilepsy may be affecting their day-to-day life. Appointments typically last up to 50 minutes.
During the appointment, we may talk about:
- Your child's epilepsy history and current difficulties
- Emotional wellbeing, including anxiety, low mood or worries
- Behavioural challenges
- Learning, attention and memory difficulties
- School and educational needs
- Family relationships and adjustment to epilepsy
- Strengths, interests and goals for support
We aim to create a safe, supportive and confidential environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their experiences.
Following the assessment, we will discuss recommendations and possible next steps. This may include getting to know you and your child better, individual therapy, parental support, consultation with school staff, cognitive assessment, or signposting to other services.
4. Cognitive Assessment
Some children and young people with epilepsy experience difficulties with areas such as attention, memory, processing speed, language or learning. A cognitive assessment can help us understand your child's strengths and areas where they may need additional support.
What is a cognitive assessment?
A cognitive assessment is a structured assessment carried out by a psychologist using a range of activities and games. The assessment explores different thinking and learning skills, which may include:
- General abilities
- Attention and concentration
- Memory
- Language skills
- Processing speed
- Problem-solving and reasoning
- Executive functioning (planning, organisation and self-monitoring)
What can I expect?
Cognitive assessments are usually completed over one or more appointments, depending on your child's age and needs. Tasks may include puzzles, memory activities, questions and problem-solving exercises.
Parents or carers will also be asked about their child's development, learning and day-to-day functioning. With consent, information may be gathered from school to help us build a fuller picture of your child's needs.
Following the assessment, you will receive feedback on the findings and recommendations. These may include strategies for home and school, advice regarding educational support, or recommendations for further assessment or intervention where appropriate.
5. Where we offer appointments
Outpatient appointments: Most appointments take place at the Rainbow Community Hub in Elland.
School visits: In exceptional circumstances where attending appointments in Elland might be difficult, we can arrange appointments at school.
Virtual sessions: Video appointments can also be offered if attending appointments in person is difficult.
6. How to be referred
Referrals to the Paediatric Epilepsy Psychology Service are made through members of the Paediatric Epilepsy Team.
If you feel that psychological support may be helpful for your child, please discuss this with your consultant, epilepsy specialist nurse or another healthcare professional involved in your child's care.
Referrals are reviewed by the team to ensure that the service is appropriate for your child's needs.
7. Contact Us
If you have any questions, you can contact the Clinical Health Psychology department at 01484 346030.
8. Useful links and additional information
- Epilepsy Action provides information, advice and support for people affected by epilepsy and their families.
- Young Epilepsy is a UK charity offering information and resources for children, young people and families.
- Epilepsy Society provides information on epilepsy, treatment and support services.
- The NHS provides information about epilepsy in children and young people.
- NEUROkid provides information on living with non-epileptic seizures and functional neurological symptoms.