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Mental Health and Learning Disability Services: Consultant Clinical Psychologists

Consultant clinical psychologists are qualified mental health professionals who specialise in the delivery of evidence-based psychological assessment and interventions. They work with people across the life span, from young children to older adults, across the whole spectrum of psychological problems (including anxiety, depression, disordered eating, post traumatic stress and complex trauma).

Using direct observation, interviews and techniques such as psychometric testing, the clinical psychologist will make an assessment of a patient’s problem. They will work in partnership with the patient to develop a shared understanding of the problems and agree a treatment plan. This will usually take place over a series of sessions. They also work with other members of the CMHT to help make sense of complex psychological problems and contribute to the wider planning of care and treatment.

The consultant clinical psychologist works with individuals, families and groups in a variety of locations depending on individual need, including people's homes, community venues, health centres and hospital.

Clinical Psychologists also offer consultation, clinical supervision, and training to other colleagues working in health and social care to improve skills and increase delivery of evidence-based psychological interventions.

NHS Western Isles employs two part time Consultant Clinical Psychologists. One has a remit for children and young people who have mental health or emotional difficulties, and people who have dementia. The other consultant has a remit for adults with mental health difficulties, and people who have a learning disability.

Referral

Routine/scheduled referrals to the Mental Health Service (CPN, Consultant Psychiatrist, Consultant Psychologist, CBT therapist) are made via our Referral Management System (RMS) and each referral is triaged by the Senior Charge Nurse, CPN service, to ensure the patient is seen by the right person at the right time.