
We understand that living with a long-term health condition can significantly impact your daily life, often causing distress and discomfort. Our team is here to support you in coping with and managing various challenges related to your condition through tailored talking therapy sessions.
We can assist with the following issues:
Individuals are referred to our service through the Integrated Long-Term Conditions teams at Porters Avenue Health Centre, other NELFT services, or Barking & Dagenham GPs. If you wish to be referred, please consult with your healthcare professional (e.g., diabetes, respiratory, or cardiac nurse, physiotherapist, dietitian, doctor, or mental health professional), who can complete our referral form on your behalf.
Self-referrals are not accepted. For more information, please contact us at ClinicalHealthPsychology@nelft.nhs.uk.
Eligibility criteria
Adults aged 18 and over, registered with a GP in Barking and Dagenham, who meet the following criteria:
Exclusion criteria
Case consultation / link working
Local staff and services are encouraged to contact us for case discussions, supervision, and training regarding patients whose long-term conditions are contributing to their presenting difficulties.
Following referral from your healthcare professional, we will contact you to arrange a pre-assessment appointment. During this appointment, you will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and the support you need. We will also address any questions you may have about the process.
We offer three modes of therapy (in-person, video, and telephone sessions) with flexible frequency options (weekly, fortnightly, or monthly) based on your needs. Therapy requires a level of commitment, and you will be expected to attend sessions as agreed upon.
All advice and therapeutic input are provided on a non-judgmental basis, respecting each individual’s uniqueness, cultural background, and personal circumstances. The therapy process is kept confidential. However, we may need to share relevant information or concerns with your healthcare team if they are pertinent to your care. This ensures you receive the best possible service. Any such sharing of information will be done with your consent and in consultation with you.
An introduction to Long Term Conditions Psychology Services:
Cardiac conditions: Heart health questions, information and support - BHF
Respiratory conditions: COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) | Asthma + Lung UK
Diabetes: Diabetes UK - Know diabetes. Fight diabetes. | Diabetes UK
For crisis support, please call 111 and select Option 2, or contact Mental Health Direct at 0800 995 1000. If you are in immediate danger and require urgent medical attention, call 999 immediately.