We aim to provide high quality, evidence-based therapy across the life span and to a variety of individuals, their families and carers. Further information about the individual services can be found by following the relevant links. We work closely with other NHS departments, the health and social care partnership, and the third and independent sector. We offer one to one therapy, systemic work, consultation to professionals and training.
Who We Are
The Psychology Department is made up of a number of Services:
- Adult Mental Health
- Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychology
- Clinical Health
- Computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Forensic Applied Psychology Service
- Intellectual Disability Psychology Service
- Neuropsychology
- Perinatal Mental Health Team
- Older Adults Psychology Service
- Self-Help Service
- Wee Minds Matter Infant Mental Health
Psychologists work as part of local NHS services that provide specialist assessment and advice to the Mental Health teams:
- In-Patient Wards (Midpark Hospital)
- Personality Disorder Service
- Interventions in Dementia Education Assessment Service (IDEAS)
- Specialist Adult Intellectual Disability Service
The Department work closely with colleagues in Community Mental Health Teams and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).
Referral Information
The process of referral depends on the Psychology Service required. Please follow the above links to find each Service’s referral criteria and process.
A therapeutic relationship is based on having confidence that information is not disclosed without that person’s agreement.
The individual can agree to full or partial information sharing. We will only discuss information on a need to know basis. Similarly, we will treat any discussions with carers in confidence and only share these with the service user if the carers agree with this.
If any risks are identified, we have a duty of care to respond appropriately and may have to share information against your wishes; this will always be discussed with you.
Clear and accurate recording of information is essential in providing effective and appropriate multi-disciplinary care. All patient information will be recorded on the electronic records system in line with professional guidelines, local/national policies and data protection.
What can I expect when I’m referred to the service?
When you are referred to Psychology Services you will receive a letter confirming this. You may be asked to confirm that you wish to be seen via an ‘opt-in’ letter.
When we receive your response, we aim to contact you within 12 weeks. This is to arrange an initial, brief, assessment appointment. The timing can vary dependent on staffing and appointment availability. This appointment will focus on:
- Finding out how things are for you and exploring what might be making the problem worse or better
- Agreeing on whether we are the right service to meet your needs and/or discussing alternative sources of support
- Discussing ways in which you can begin to improve your wellbeing whilst waiting to be seen. This may include, reading material, online support packages or information on third sector support agencies.
Contact us
The Head of Psychology and the Department are based at:
Department of Psychological Services and Research
Mountainhall Treatment Centre
Bankend Road
Dumfries
DG1 4AP
Tel. 01387 244495,
Open Monday to Friday, 8.30am-5pm, for enquiries.
Appointments are held throughout Dumfries and Galloway.