Clinical Psychology Services for Children and Young People

Coming to see a Clinical Psychologist

If you are sent an appointment to see a clinical psychologist there may well be questions you have before you come. This hopefully will answer some of those questions.

Why have I been sent an appointment?

In the course of growing up many young people and their families can experience difficulties. An opportunity to talk to a professional who has been trained to help with those problems is usually helpful. The person who has asked us to see you believes we can help.

What is a clinical psychologist?

Child clinical psychologists have an understanding of childhood and adolescent problems. They are trained to work with both adults and children and have specialised experience in all types of development and the many psychological difficulties which influence children and families.

What does a clinical psychologist do?

We work together with young people and their families in a number of ways including:

Helping children and their parents or carers develop problem solving skills
Increasing parents/carers ability to manage existing psychological problems
Helping young people cope with stress in the future
Encouraging useful skills and good relationships

What happens when you come for an appointment?

First of all, let the receptionist know you’re here! Usually, both the young person and their parent or carer will be seen separately. When the initial assessment is completed you may be seen individually or as a family. An appointment generally lasts 45-50 minutes. Whilst one member of the family is being seen there is a pleasant waiting area. In some instances a psychologist can come to your home or arrange an appointment in a local health centre. Lime Trees is fully accessible for people in wheelchairs.

What are other questions young people ask or think about?

Am I mad?

This is a common fear. However, most people experience anxiety, depressions or other difficulties at different stages in their life and find it useful talking to someone outside the family.

Do I have to come?

No. Attendance is voluntary. If your parent, carer or doctor thinks a visit would be helpful, we hope you will come along and find out for yourself. If you are unable to come then please let us know as there is a great demand for the service.

Will I get medicine?

No. Psychologists don’t give medicine. The types of treatment they give are mainly to do with talking. (With younger people we may also use drawing and play). A psychologist may ask you to complete a questionnaire or to help with an assessment test.

How many times do I have to come?

Usually the first 2 or 3 appointments are designed to try and find out what the problems are and how we can help. The psychologist will then discuss with you if you need any more meetings and how many.

Will you keep a secret?

We will not go around talking to people about your problems. We will contact your doctor or social worker (or the person who referred you) to tell them how you are getting on. Sometimes we will need to talk to your school but would obtain your parents’/carers’ permission first.