The clinical psychologist usually introduces herself to a family if the team feels that their support may be useful to the family. A referral is not necessary and parents can ask to see her themselves if they have concerns or questions about any of their children and how they have been coping since diagnosis. 

Some parents want to talk with the psychologist about the impact of diagnosis and treatment on their child’s development. Many parents want ideas about ways to help their child cope with medical procedures, oral medications and/or hospitalisations.

You may have questions about how to manage emotional or behavioural problems that have developed or increased since diagnosis. 

Brothers and sisters of the patient might be affected by the change in their life since their sick sibling's diagnosis. It is helpful for a brother or sister to meet the psychologist and to know that she is available for them. 

Clinical psychology services are also available to children who have completed treatment and have returned to school. The clinical psychologist assess children and teenagers who may be experiencing learning difficulties due to missed schooling and possible long-term effects of their treatment. 

A referral from the patient’s oncology specialist is required before an assessment can be arranged. 

Families can decide how much or how little contact they would like with the psychologist. Some parents feel that one meeting has given them enough information to go on with.

Others prefer to have several regular meetings to help them manage and improving how they adjust and cope with changes and challenges.