What is a Clinical Psychologist?

Clinical Psychologists aim to reduce psychological, emotional or behavioural distress or difficulties. We also aim to enhance and promote psychological or emotional well-being. We use a variety of talking therapies, based on different ways of understanding emotional distress or behavioural difficulties. When working with children and young people we also rely upon creative activities such as drawing, playing, games and activities as well as talking.

Before deciding which type of talking therapy we use, Clinical Psychologists conduct a thorough assessment of your child and the situation. Then, after discussion with you, we develop a plan that best fits your circumstances and the available evidence about what could be most helpful.

Clinical Psychologists who work specifically with children and young people also have knowledge of child development and are able to offer advice and support regarding difficulties in development and learning. This may include assessing learning ability and/or development using well established, standardised assessment tools.