Clinical Psychologist
Specialist psychological support for adjustment and cognitive rehabilitation
The basics
What is a clinical psychologist?
A clinical psychologist is not the same as a counsellor. They hold a doctorate-level qualification in psychology and are trained in assessment, psychological therapy, and understanding how the mind and brain work together. For neurological conditions, many clinical psychologists specialise in neuropsychology - they understand how your brain injury or condition is affecting your thinking, memory, emotions, and adjustment to life changes.
After stroke, brain injury, MS, or other neurological conditions, there are often psychological impacts alongside physical ones. You might be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief over lost abilities, cognitive changes you can't quite explain, or trauma from the event itself. A clinical psychologist can assess what's happening cognitively, help you understand the psychological impact of your condition, and provide evidence-based psychological therapy tailored to your needs. They might use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, or other approaches depending on what will help you most. They can also assess cognitive changes, work with memory problems, help with adjustment to disability, and support you in rebuilding a sense of meaning and identity after neurological injury.
Clinical psychologists work within the medical and rehabilitation team. They understand neurological conditions deeply and know how physical changes, medication, fatigue, and neurological symptoms interact with emotional and cognitive wellbeing. They can help you make sense of what's changed, develop strategies to manage difficulties, process trauma, and move forward in a way that feels authentic to who you are now.
Who benefits
Who might benefit from seeing a clinical psychologist?
If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, cognitive changes, memory problems, grief, trauma from your injury, or adjustment to life changes, a clinical psychologist can help profoundly. They're particularly valuable if you're noticing changes in thinking, personality, or emotional regulation that you struggle to understand - they can assess what's happening and help you develop strategies to manage. They're also crucial for processing the psychological impact of acquiring a disability and rebuilding meaning and identity. Clinical psychologists also support people living with dementia and children with neurological conditions.
What to expect
What happens in a session?
Comprehensive Assessment
Your psychologist will conduct a thorough assessment of your condition, symptoms, medical history, current difficulties, and what matters to you. They may include cognitive screening or formal neuropsychological testing to understand how your brain injury is affecting thinking and memory. This assessment guides everything that follows.
Collaborative Formulation
They'll explain what they understand to be happening - how your neurological condition, cognitive changes, emotional responses, and life circumstances are connected. You'll work together to understand your difficulties and identify what needs to change or be coped with.
Tailored Therapy & Strategies
You'll work through evidence-based psychological therapy techniques - whether that's CBT, acceptance work, grieving support, trauma processing, or cognitive strategy development. Your psychologist helps you develop practical ways to manage difficulties and rebuild. You'll often have homework or practices between sessions.
Progress Monitoring & Adjustment
Your psychologist regularly reviews your progress toward your goals and adjusts the approach if needed. They'll support you in integrating new ways of thinking and coping, and help you plan for ongoing wellbeing once formal therapy ends.
Finding support
How do I find a clinical psychologist?
Look for clinical psychologists registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) or chartered with the BPS (British Psychological Society). Many have additional specialisation in neuropsychology or rehabilitation psychology - ask specifically if they have experience with your condition and whether they work within neurological rehabilitation teams.
Some clinical psychologists are available through the NHS, though waiting times vary and availability for specialist neuropsychological work can be limited. Many work privately, and some offer online sessions. The My Rehab Journey directory lists clinical psychologists across the UK who specialise in neurological conditions. When you contact a psychologist, discuss your specific concerns and goals - a good fit between you and your psychologist matters enormously, and they should be willing to talk about their approach and experience before you commit to working together.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral to see a clinical psychologist?
Through the NHS, you'll typically need a GP referral, though stroke services or neurologist teams can also refer directly. For private psychologists, you can self-refer or ask your GP for recommendations. Either way, it's worth discussing with your GP or neurologist first.
How much does private clinical psychology typically cost?
Private clinical psychology sessions in the UK usually range from £80 to £200 per session, depending on experience and location. Some offer reduced rates or sliding scales. It's worth asking about packages if you need ongoing support.
How long is a typical therapy session?
Most clinical psychology sessions last 50 to 60 minutes. Your psychologist will discuss the structure with you at the start. Some offer shorter check-in sessions once you've made progress.
What qualifications should I look for in a clinical psychologist?
Look for registration with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) or chartering through the BPS (British Psychological Society). For neurological work, ask about specialist training in neuropsychology or rehabilitation psychology.
Can I see a clinical psychologist AND a neuropsychologist?
Yes, they serve different but complementary roles. A neuropsychologist assesses and supports cognitive changes; a clinical psychologist helps with emotional adjustment and therapy. Your team might include both.
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Related resources
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Conditions we work with
Stroke · Brain Injury · Multiple Sclerosis · FND · Dementia
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