Clinical Psychology

Our clinical psychologists work with people over 18 (and resident in South West London) with many different types of difficulties, including the impact of physical health problems. The clinical psychologist based in the sexual health clinic specialises in helping people with difficulties related to sexual health. The clinical psychologist does not offer input to people with general mental health difficulties that are unrelated to their sexual health.

The types of problems that people are commonly referred to the clinical psychologist for help with include:

• Difficulties coping with the diagnosis of a sexual health problem
• Sexual difficulties
• Difficulties making lifestyle changes that relate to sexual health
• Coping with traumatic events related to sexual health, eg sexual assault
• Memory and concentration problems that might be related to HIV
• Anxiety about contracting a sexually transmitted infection
• Medically unexplained symptoms related to sexual health.

Following your referral you will receive an opt-in letter where you will be required to telephone to activate the referral and make an appointment.

It is likely that you will be offered an assessment appointment within a few weeks of your referral. Wait times will vary depending on demand.

How might a clinical psychologist help?

Clinical psychologists are not medical doctors and do not prescribe drugs. The clinical psychologist will listen carefully to you and try to help you make sense of your difficulties.

There are no 'quick fixes' to the types of problems that people see clinical psychologists for. This can be disappointing. However, the clinical psychologist will be able to offer guidance and advice on ways for you to tackle the problems that you are having based on an individual formulation of your difficulties. The clinical psychologist is able to provide short term psychological therapy, including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness based approaches. 

What will happen when I see a clinical psychologist?

The first one or two meetings are for assessment. This is for you and the clinical psychologist to talk about the problems you are having and how they affect you in a confidential and supportive environment. You and the clinical psychologist can then decide on the next step & your treatment options will be explained.

It is important that you are able to attend appointments regularly. You may be seen on your own, or if appropriate with a partner or family member. You can discuss this with the clinical psychologist.

The clinical psychologist will only offer you regular sessions if he or she believes that this is the most suitable option for you. Sometimes the clinical psychologist may suggest that another service may be able to better help you with the difficulties that you are having.