Psychology is a division within the Department of Psychiatry. Psychological services involve the use of psychological principles and techniques to alleviate or modify problems and symptoms associated with subjective distress and/or reduced ability to function. This includes dealing with dysfunctional thoughts, feelings, and interpersonal behaviour.
The three major services provided are:
- Psychotherapy
- Psychological assessments (testing and diagnosis)
- Consultation to other departments
Psychology is also involved in teaching, research, and continuing education.
Patients are accepted by referral and must have a medical chart in the hospital. Referrals are sent to Psychology by physicians from all departments in the hospital. The majority of referrals come from the outpatient department in Psychiatry. The patient calls OPD for an appointment. After an initial psychiatric interview, the patient may then be referred for psychotherapy, assessment, or consultation with a psychologist. Psychotherapy is usually done on a weekly basis and, depending on the nature of the problem, may last from 3 months to a year.
