New psychotherapist means more ways to help people living with kidney disease
Patients receiving kidney care in south Essex hospitals are being helped in new ways with dedicated psychological support.
At Basildon and Southend hospitals, those receiving treatment for kidney issues, as well as the staff treating them, now have access to mental, emotional, and psychological counselling from Clinical Psychotherapist Samantha Macdonald.
Samatha bridges the gap between clinical care and a patient’s personal life, making sure they feel understood and supported throughout their treatment. This also helps patients manage anxiety and emotional stress during different stages of their care.
One of the patients who has benefitted from her service said: "Everybody needs help! Sometimes we just can’t tell our family everything we’re going through. Sam took the time to really listen and helped me understand that I wasn’t alone. It made a real difference in my recovery journey."
With over 1,200 sessions in just one year, including ward visits, face-to-face consultations, and telephone calls, Samantha has helped over 300 patients and around 50 staff since she began.
For staff, Samantha’s sessions have helped them improve work-life balance and cope with the pressures of their demanding roles. This is also improving their capacity to deliver high-quality care.
Samantha said: “Being able to support both patients and staff feels incredibly rewarding. It’s all about helping them feel heard and understood, especially during tough times. By offering this kind of support, we’re not just addressing their physical health but their overall well-being.”
Dr Gowrie Balasubramaniam, Clinical Director for Renal Service at the Trust, said: “Sam has been brilliant at providing the kind of emotional support our patients really need. Since she joined, we’ve seen a real improvement in care. Our colleagues have also benefited greatly, as they’ve found her sessions helpful in managing the pressures of their work.”
The Trust already had two Counsellors supporting patients at Broomfield Hospital. Samantha’s addition means that all kidney patients across mid and south Essex are now set to benefit from professional psychological support.
The role has been funded by Kidney Care UK for two years and with the success of the first year it is hoped that the role will be made permanent.