Counselling
Trying for a much wanted baby can be stressful, but having to depend on medical assistance to do this can be very upsetting. Counselling provides an opportunity to talk through feelings and emotions you may be experiencing. You may find it helpful to talk to an individual who is independent from the medical staff on the Unit, who has a knowledge of the dilemmas, can listen and not judge, whilst at the same time provide the opportunity for an individual or couple to find ways of dealing with success, failure and/or implications of treatment.
There is a confidential service available before, during and after treatment. Each session lasts approximately 60 minutes and the number of sessions you require will be decided by you and the counsellor. Counselling usually takes place in a private room within your treatment unit but may take place elsewhere if you prefer.
How to Contact a Counsellor
At the Hewitt Centre:
Should you wish to talk to one of the Hewitt Centre counsellors (Lorrie Hudson, Patricia Lambert and Mary Van Eker) or make an appointment to meet, they are available Monday to Friday by telephoning 0151 702 4075. This is also a 24 hour message line so a message can be left on this number if necessary and one of the counsellors will return your call as soon as possible. In addition the counsellors can be contacted via any member of the Hewitt Centre staff.
At the Countess of Chester:
If you wish to be referred to a counsellor at the Countess of Chester Hospital, please telephone Joanna Grice on 01244 365563 (p/t hours only) or contact Clinical Nurse Specialist Karen Woodcock Tel: 01244 366261, who will be pleased to make arrangements for you.
At Leighton:
If you wish to speak to a Counsellor at Leighton Hospital, contact Lesley Sumner on 01270 273499. Please leave a message if Lesley is unavailable and she will return your call as soon as possible.
At the Lindens Medical Centre
Counselling at the Lindens Medical Centre is provided by Beverley Loftus. Should you wish to speak to Beverley please speak to your referring consultant or to Sue Walker on 0781 015 3894.