Clinical Psychology is a specialised branch of Psychology. Clinical Psychologists use psychological knowledge and techniques to address psychological problems. We help you cope with a wide range of problems such as depression, self-harm and interpersonal difficulties as well as psychosis.
Clinical psychologists throughout the service offer a wide range of psychotherapeutic interventions specifically designed to take into account the specific needs of each service user. Psychology interventions are offered in either a one-to-one or group format. The interventions on offer will be discussed with you as part of the assessment process. The specific type of intervention likely to be of benefit will be discussed with you following a psychological assessment.
How do I get referred to a Clinical Psychologist?
Your Local Mental Health Team can refer you for Psychological Assessment, Psychological Intervention or both.
What happens on my first visit?
Your first visit will be an interview. Your Clinical Psychologist will meet to discuss your current circumstances and concerns with you.
What questions do you ask?
We will ask you to talk about yourself both now and in the past. You will be asked what you’d like to be different in your life or what changes you want to make.
Do I need to bring anything?
We may ask you to complete some questionnaires so if you need reading glasses please bring these along with you.
Do I need to bring another person?
No, but your Clinical Psychologist will welcome meeting with your family member or carer if that is helpful to you.
How much time should I allow?
Up to 1 hour.
What happens next?
Your Psychological Assessment will take between 2 to 6 weeks to complete. We’ll give you feedback after that time. At that stage, we’ll agree a treatment plan with you. This might involve a referral to another member of the Local Mental Health Team, a referral to a community service or the offer of psychotherapy/intervention from the Clinical Psychology service.
What if I can’t attend an appointment?
Please let us know us as soon as you can. Your appointment time can be given to another person and we can give you a new date.
