Areas of Practice


Psychological testing services for family court

 

The psychological assessment of parents, children, adolescents, and families is based on evaluation methods informed by the scientist-practitioner model, including the latest research on psychometrics, psychopathology, parenting, and attachment and years of applied practice. This approach has been carefully developed and refined, and used extensively and effectively on behalf of solicitors and local authorities. Information is compiled into a detailed report designed to respond to the instructions and to conform to legal standards. The methodology employed for these reports involves:

  • Psychological personality testing

  • Psychological testing and/or interviewing for psychopathology

  • Tests of cognitive and memory functioning

  • Attachment interviews

  • Review of background information made available

  • Consultation with professionals and others familiar with the individual(s) being assessed

  • Semi-structured clinical interview (including personal history and formal mental status exam)

  • Observation of contact


Psychological evaluations for immigration cases

 

Political instability around the globe and more restrictive immigration policies have been associated with increased rates of mental health symptoms in immigrants and refugees. Comprehensive assessments can identify emotional distress, areas of cognitive impairment, social adjustment issues, and/or psychological hardship to clarify needs arising from migration experiences. This work is informed by practices in applied and cross-cultural psychology. A typical assessment process includes:

  • Clinical interviews with the client(s)

  • Review of medical, psychological and other collateral documents

  • Administration, scoring, and interpretation of psychological interviews and measures


Psychological assessment of mitigating factors

 

An understanding of factors impacting a defendant’s judgment, perceptions, and intent at the time of the offence(s) can help inform sentencing mitigation. This work generally involves an assessment of psychological needs and of risk, and recommendations to address identified areas of distress and to reduce recidivism. Although most referrals are from defending counsel, prosecutors may also wish to obtain an independent assessment for their own understanding of the defendant or to challenge the expert for the defence.


Psychological appraisal of occupational stress or trauma

 

The evaluation of work-related psychological injury is guided by clinical knowledge, the use of standardised measures, and research evidence. Offered here are comprehensive psychological or “fitness to work” assessments. The objectives are to:

  • Provide a comprehensive and complete psychological history and diagnosis

  • Provide a complete management plan, focusing on treatment recommendations and if applicable, further assessments

  • Provide a comprehensible explanation of the current disability, allowing for objective and evidence-based decision-making

  • Where requested, provide recommendations to support the individual’s return to work

Referrals are accepted from a GP, third-party reviewer, or solicitor. Evaluations involve a clinical interview, standardised psychological tests and measures, and the incorporation of all available collateral information where appropriate. Reports aim to clearly answer all questions related to the reason for referral, contain a comprehensive summary and formulation, and clearly outline a psychological-occupational treatment plan.


Clinical supervision

 

A distinct professional practice based on a collaborative relationship, supervision strives to support the professional competence, well-being, and science-informed practice of the supervisee; monitoring the quality of services provided; and protecting the public. Services are available to qualified psychologists providing expert witness work; general psychological assessment; and therapeutic work with clients experiencing trauma, alcohol and/or substance misuse, cognitive functioning concerns, mood and anxiety disorders, and psychosocial challenges. The overall approach is relational with sessions conducted remotely to support clinician flexibility.


Reflective practice

 

Reflective practice provides professionals essential and important time to appraise, focus, and reflect on their work. Facilitation of these groups is guided by an open and supportive philosophy, which ensures that a safe, productive space is provided with the aims of fostering greater self-awareness, well-being, critical thinking, and integration of theory and practice links. Sessions are offered to teams and small groups working in a range of mental health settings.


Consultation services

 

Specialist experience and knowledge can be employed to provide a dedicated professional opinion, advice, assist local authorities in problem-solving or setting up services. Consultations often relate to a particular child, parents, or the family system. Such work has often involved meeting and working with social care professionals, educators, mental health providers, and others engaged with delivering services and providing support.