Neuropsychology service

The neuropsychology service helps patients affected by illness or injury to the body’s nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord and other nerves.

Our clinical neuropsychologists work with you to understand and treat the difficulties caused by neurological illness or injury.

Our services

Neuropsychologists use a range of tests to assess problems with people’s thinking abilities. These can include problems with:

Concentration
Memory
Planning
Problem-solving
Behavioural problems (such as anger and compulsions)
Emotional problems (such as anxiety, depression and trauma).

We assess people to help them manage these difficulties in the most appropriate way.

The majority of patients we see come from the neurology department.

We usually see inpatients on their ward, either at their bedside or ideally in a more private area. We usually see outpatients in the health psychology outpatient department in the New Victoria Wing at the Royal Victoria Infirmary.

What will happen at my appointment?

Outpatient appointments last around two to three hours. If you become easily tired or struggle to concentrate, the first appointment could be shorter. We can then complete the assessment at a second appointment.

If we need to arrange a repeat assessment to compare results over time, we’ll do this 6 to 12 months after the first assessment. Alternatively, we may give you advice and information about coping with your difficulties.

We often advise that you bring a friend or relative to your appointment to help with your history.

At the appointments, you and the clinical neuropsychologist will discuss your problems and concerns. This information is kept confidential, but we share the details with the doctor who referred you to us.

We may also share information with your GP to help them with diagnosis and to manage any risk.

What is a Neuropsychologist?

Neuropsychologists initially train in clinical psychology.

They also have specialist knowledge, training and expertise in the relationship between the brain and a person’s behaviour.

Meet the team

Our team is made up of:

Consultant clinical psychologist
Neuropsychologists
Clinical psychologists
Administrative staff.

How can I be referred into the service?

You can be referred to us by any member of the neurology and neurosurgery teams. They can send written referrals to our department using the details below.

Other healthcare professionals can also call us to discuss possible referrals to the team.