Our clinical psychology service provides assessment, diagnosis and treatment of psychological and emotional problems.
About this service
Psychologists work in a variety of different roles. We offer appointments with psychologists who are trained in clinical psychology.
Our clinical psychologists can provide a range of therapies, techniques, and strategies which are helpful in addressing a number of issues. These may include:
- Anxiety symptoms (panic attacks, trauma, fear of falling)
- symptoms of depression
- difficulties with aggression
- problems maintaining or initiating sleep
- pain.
If untreated, such difficulties can impact on your ability to benefit from, or participate in, everyday activities. This may result in you feeling a reduced sense of quality of life. Psychologists work as part of a team, to help with enhancing your psychological wellbeing.
Who we care for
Our services are available for:
- people who are recovering from a recent brain injury or illness
- older people with worsening cognitive difficulties.
The service is available to adults who live in the ACT and is free for Medicare or Asylum Seeker cardholders.
How to access this service
You need a referral from a doctor or another of our Rehabilitation, Aged, & Community services.
Your doctor will send your referral to our Central Health Intake team.
What to expect
What does seeing a psychologist involve?
Initial interview (Psychology Assessment)
Your first appointment with a psychologist is usually to gather background information, such as your medical, social, educational, occupational, and psychological history. This process helps both you and the psychologist to identify current and past difficulties. This will help us develop an appropriate treatment plan.
We may also ask you to do a few assessments during the initial appointment. These may include things like a questionnaire toto identify particular symptoms (such as anxiety) you may be experiencing.
Treatment
You will typically receive six face-to-face consultations with a psychologist. The aim of these appointments will be to:
- identify current difficulties which you would like to see improved (your goals)
- provide a treatment program to address these difficulties
- and/or to assist you to understand the issues that you are facing in your life.
How long is the assessment and treatment?
The length and number of sessions for the initial appointment and treatment will depend on your situation. An assessment usually takes 1–2 sessions followed by five therapy sessions (if appropriate).
Sessions typically run for 50 minutes. The sixth session will involve a review of the original goals, and a review of the progress made. The sixth session will also focus on identifying an appropriate course of action for the future.
What to bring to your appointment
- Medicare card
- Any letters or correspondence from your GP
- List of medicines you are currently taking (or the boxes), including medicines you have bought without a prescription, such as herbal supplements and vitamins
Where we’re located
We have directions to University of Canberra Hospital.
