Psychology
Psychologists are specialists in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of psychological difficulties and mental health problems.
Psychologists are trained in the delivery of a range of non-drug techniques, strategies and therapies with demonstrated effectiveness in treating mental health disorders. They are specialists in applying psychological theory and scientific research to solve complex clinical problems requiring individually tailored interventions. Some psychologists are specially trained in the field of neuropsychology and provide evaluation and management of problems with brain functions such as memory and problem-solving. Others are specially trained in assisting with psychological issues related to physical illness.
Psychologists work with both individuals and groups. Issues with which psychologists may assist include:-
- Anxiety, e.g. phobias, panic attacks, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Depression
- Psychiatric conditions including psychosis & bipolar disorder
- Personality problems
- Self-harming behaviour
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Addiction, e.g. substance use, gambling
- Eating disorders
- Psychological problems causing or resulting from medical conditions
- Chronic pain
- Brain injury, e.g. attention, memory, judgement and reasoning deficits
- Dementia and other cognitive disorders
- Intellectual disability
- Developmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia
- Sexual disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Behavioural problems
- Trauma, e.g. sexual assault, domestic violence, major personal disaster
- Parent-child relationships
- Relationship, couple and family difficulties
- Loss and unresolved grief
All practising psychologists in NSW must be registered with the Psychologists Registration Board. Minimum requirements for registration include completion of training through an accredited university followed by two years of supervised practice. Many psychologists working in the health system have completed specialist post-graduate training at Masters or Doctoral level. Psychologists are governed by a strict Code of Ethics.
Psychologists in HNEH work in a wide range of settings according to their particular areas of training and expertise. These may include mental health services, community health, acute hospitals, aged care and rehabilitation services, drug & alcohol services, health promotion and various specialist teams.
Psychology services are also available in the private sector. Where psychologists and clinical psychologists in private practice provide services for mental health disorders, these services may be covered by Medicare if clients are appropriately referred by a medical practitioner.
Professional Links
Australian Psychological Society
www.psychology.org.au
The Institute for the Study of Therapeutic Change (ISTC)
www.talkingcure.com
NSW Psychologists Registration Board
www.psychreg.health.nsw.gov.au