Psychological assessment & therapy for children, adolescents & adults
Information
WHAT IS CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY?
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Clinical psychology is a branch of psychology that aims to diagnose and treat mental health, emotional and behavioural problems. The aim of psychological therapy is to reduce distress and improve the psychological well-being of clients. Clinical Psychologists are considered experts in the field of human emotion and behaviour.
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WHAT KINDS OF PROBLEMS CAN PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPY HELP WITH?
Clinical Psychologists can help with a wide range of mental health and emotional problems including: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Depression/Low mood, Stress, Anxiety, Health-related distress, Phobias, Panic attacks, Social anxiety, Major life changes, Eating problems, Relationship difficulties, Bereavement, Anger, Sleep problems.
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CAN I SEE A PSYCHOLOGIST EVEN IF I DO NOT HAVE A MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEM?
Yes. Psychological therapy is very helpful in improving your awareness of your thoughts, feelings and behaviours and developing effective coping strategies. With a greater understanding of yourself, you may be able to lead a more fulfilled and happy life.
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WHAT WILL THE SESSIONS BE LIKE AND HOW MANY WILL I NEED?
Clinical Psychologists are highly trained in listening and reflecting and aim to provide a safe and secure environment for you to talk about your difficulties. Following your initial assessment, I will be able to give you an idea as to how many session are likely to be needed based on the difficulties identified, the evidence-base and recommended treatment guidelines. You are free to attend as many sessions as you choose to and are free to end the sessions at any time.
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HOW LONG WILL I HAVE TO WAIT FOR AN APPOINTMENT?
An initial assessment is usually offered within two weeks.
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HOW CAN I CHECK THE QUALIFICATIONS OF A CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST?
Clinical Psychologists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). You are able to search by name for a Psychologist to confirm their registration on the HCPC website: www.hcpc-uk.org
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Links
PROFESSIONAL
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Health and Care Professions Council www.hcpc-uk.org
British Psychological Society www.bps.org.uk
​MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
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Mind www.mind.org.uk 0300 123 3393
Samaritans www.samaritans.org 116 123
Rethink www.rethink.org 0300 5000 927
SaneLine www.sane.org.uk 0300 304 7000
ChildLine www.childline.org.uk 0800 111
NHS Direct www.england.nhs.uk/urgent-emergency-care 111
If you are in crisis or there is a significant risk to your safety or another individual's safety please contact 999 or go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department.
CHILDREN'S SOCIAL SERVICES
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If you are concerns about the welfare or safety of a child please contact children's social services immediately.
Telephone: 0345 603 7627 Webpage: https://www.essex.gov.uk/adult-social-care-and-health/report-concern-about-adult-or-child/report-concern-about-child​
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