Red Cell Psychology Service (Adults)
Who are we?
We are a small team of psychologists who work with adults living with red cell blood disorders under the care of Whittington Health. We work closely with haematologists and clinical nurse specialists who have a specialist interest in red cell blood disorders at the Whittington. We also work closely with the NCL Red Cell Community Team. You can find us at the Whittington Hospital and the Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Centre at 17a Hornsey Street, London, N7 8GG.
What do we do?
We offer sessions on wards and in clinics and can help with talking about anything related to living with a red cell blood disorder. These may include:
- Low mood, anxiety, anger, feelings of isolation.
- Feeling overwhelmed about the future.
- Managing symptoms, for example pain and fatigue.
- Balancing your health condition and treatment with other areas of life.
- Making decisions about treatment.
- Managing complications and side effects of treatment.
- Building self-confidence and self-esteem.
- Talking with family, friends, and healthcare professionals about your needs.
Sessions are free and we can speak with you in person, or via video call or telephone. You can invite your family members, friends or carers to join sessions if you want to.
We are not an emergency service. If you need urgent emotional support, please contact your GP and make an emergency appointment, call 111, or visit your local Accident and Emergency Department.
If you live in Barnet, Enfield, or Haringey, your 24-hour mental health support line is 0800 151 0023.
If you live in Camden or Islington, your 24-hour mental health support line is 0800 917 3333.
What about confidentiality?
Everything you say to your psychologist is confidential and we will normally only disclose information to professionals involved in your care with your consent.
The only time we may have to break your confidentiality is if you tell us something that makes us concerned about your safety or the safety of someone else. In this case we would always discuss this with you first if possible.
How can I be referred?
You can ask your haematology doctor, clinical nurse specialists or a member of the Community Red Cell Service to make a referral for you.
We do regular ward rounds and join haematology clinics. You are most welcome to make a self-referral when you meet us.
What happens after a referral?
One of our psychologists will be in touch with you within 6 weeks from date of referral to understand more about your hopes for psychological support and to make a care plan with you.
How to get in touch with the team
You can contact us by the below email or telephone number:
Email: whh-tr.chphaematology@nhs.net
Tel: 0207 527 1538 (If you reach voicemail please say your name, date of birth and NHS number when you are leaving a message.)
Email: whh-tr.chphaematology@nhs.net
Tel: 0207 527 1538 (If you reach voicemail please say your name, date of birth and NHS number when you are leaving a message.)
Further information
(My psychologist) helped me through my difficult time, and I came out from the sessions more balanced.
Last updated23 Jul 2025