bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment for top management selection
Authors: Fletcher Clive
Published: January 2023

The article focuses on selection for top management roles, such as Main Board positions in the private sector and Permanent Secretary or Director General positions in the public sector. Assessing candidates for these top posts involves making decisions that are crucial to the future of the organisation concerned. Top management usually operates at a strategic level, and in that context much depends on the political skills of those involved, they are frequently building collaboration and alliances with other organisations, dealing with the media and coping with an increasingly regulated environment. Such demands require a high level of political awareness in leadership, which should be reflected in the capabilities assessed (Hartley et al., Dulewicz et al., 2007; Hartley & Fletcher, 2008).
Adverse impact and cognitive ability tests… Or systematic discrimination endorsed by psychologists
Authors: Hammarling Nic
Published: January 2023

This article draws on a combination of research, client projects and experience in the field to explore the issue of adverse impact (AI) of psychometric tests in a selection context.
Understanding and measuring risk type
Authors: Trickey Geoff
Published: January 2023

Understanding and managing risk is a complex field. This article presents findings from a recent study, using the Risk-Type CompassTM, that may further our understanding of possible role and gender differences relating to risk.
It’s not what you know, it’s who you know: The importance of networks
Authors: Jones Pete , Cornish Tinu
Published: January 2023

One of the most frequently reported problems facing some staff in organisational settings is limited access to, or exclusion from, informal networks (DiTomaso et al., 1988; O’Leary & Ickovics, 1992). These networks allocate a variety of resources that are critical for job effectiveness and career advancement as well as benefits such as friendship and social support (see Tichy, 1981, for a review). Limited network access, therefore, produces multiple disadvantages, including restricted knowledge of what is going on in their organisations and difficulty in forming alliances, which, in turn, are associated with limited mobility and ‘glass ceiling’ effects. This article summarises a recent study into the use of Social Network Analysis to understand the impact of networks in personal and career development.
Practical consequences of occupational testing and assessment
Authors: MacRae Ian
Published: January 2023

Testing and assessment is typically evaluated by its accuracy and generalisability. The strength of a measure depends on its ability to represent a psychological phenomena (John & Soto, 2007). However, the social and cultural effects of psychological testing must also be evaluated in applied situations. This article briefly explores how assessment in a particular occupation can alter perceptions of the occupation and the characteristics being assessed.
Conceptualising and measuring academic motivation
Authors: Putwain Dave
Published: January 2023

There is an almost bewildering array of different ways in which practitioners and researchers can conceptualise and measure academic motivation, and how academic motivation may overlap with and relate to adjacent constructs such as interest, engagement and enjoyment in learning. Conceptual clarity is required to clearly delineate between different constructs, develop precision in measurement tools and to advance theory. The purpose of this article is to describe one popular and contemporary approach to academic motivation – achievement goals – and how it can be measured.
Ambition and personality: How important are they for career success?
Authors: Deakin Paul , Dost Nikhita
Published: January 2023

This study explored the extent to which ambition and personality predict career success, defined by the achievement of promotion to a more senior role in the last three years. Results showed the best overall prediction to be achieved through a combination of three predictors; Ambition, Age (low) and the 16PF primary factor Vigilance (low). However, the predictive model only accounted for 10 per cent of the variation in career success, suggesting only a modest predictive ability.
Paper in depth: Assessing does not mean threatening: The purpose of assessment as a key determinant of girls’ and boys’ performance in a science class (Souchal et al., 2014)
Authors: Horne Jo
Published: January 2023

This is the first in an occasional ‘paper in depth’ series. If you have ideas for a paper to review that our readers would be interested in, or would like to provide a review, please get in touch.
Using behaviour analysis to analyse senior and executive team meetings
Authors: Dijkema Sanne , Pryce-Jones Jess
Published: January 2023

This article reflects on the use of behaviour analysis as a consulting tool to use when working with senior or executive teams. The paper outlines why the approach is valuable, what it is, how it is used and reflections on the overall process.
Enabling individuals who have specific difficulties in the workplace: Part 1
Authors: McLoughlin David
Published: January 2023

This is the first in a series of four articles focussing on the challenges facing people who experience specific difficulties in the workplace. Here the focus is on changing perceptions of the nature and impact of such difficulties. The subsequent contributions will address a Profile of Strengths and Weaknesses approach to assessment, skill and strategy development, as well as advocacy.
‘We don’t need no education?’ The voices of young people attending alternative education provision
Authors: Kenneally Olivia , Miles Kim
Published: January 2023

Working with 16–25-year-olds as part of changing legislation poses exciting opportunities and ways of working for educational psychologists (EPs). An essential element of this work involves ensuring appropriate provision for vulnerable young people at risk of becoming NEETs (Not in Education, Employment or Training). This study aimed to explore experiences of alternative education provision from the perspectives of young people, parents and staff.
Scoring Situational Judgement Tests: Evolving approaches
Authors: Meachin James
Published: January 2023

While it is well established that Situational Judgement Tests (SJTs) can be valid predictors of workplace performance (e.g. McDaniel et al., 2007), research on the effectiveness of different scoring methods is still evolving (e.g. St-Sauveur et al., 2014; Hughes, 2014). This article uses practical examples to illustrate how the scoring of ranking-based methods could be enhanced.
Heroes, landmarks and blind alleys in personality assessment: The later psycho-lexical trait studies and the emergence of the Big Five
Authors: McCredie Hugh
Published: January 2023

In the fifth of a series of articles to mark the centenary of the First World War, the author discusses the emergence of the Big Five personality model and the implications for today’s test users.
A day in the life...
Authors: Hymans Michael
Published: January 2023

Michael Hymans is an Educational Psychologist who now works in private practice as an Expert Witness for the Family Law Courts and Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunals (SENDIST). He is ‘bought in’ by five different local authority (LA) schools to provide psychological services.
Pioneers and landmarks in intelligence testing – identifying those with learning difficulties: Binet, Simon & their immediate successors
Authors: McCredie Hugh
Published: January 2023

In his ongoing series of articles, Dr Hugh McCredie takes a close look at the pioneers of intelligence testing and the impact they have had on identifying learning difficulties.
Informing methods of reading instruction with cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience
Authors: Taylor Joanne S.H. , Davis Matthew H. , Rastle Kathleen
Published: January 2023

Reading acquisition requires learning the associations between visual symbols and the sounds and meanings they represent. In alphabetic languages, the relationship between visual and spoken forms is relatively systematic, whereas the relationship between visual form and meaning is relatively arbitrary. Reading instruction that emphasises the relationship between spelling and sound (phonics) is therefore thought to be most effective, but opponents argue that this method does not improve reading comprehension. We simulated the process of reading acquisition by teaching adults to read artificial orthographies in two different ways, either focusing on spelling-to-sound or spelling-to-meaning mappings. Behavioural testing following nine days of training showed convincingly that the spelling-to-sound focus improved both reading aloud and comprehension, relative to the spelling-to-meaning focus. Neuroimaging data provided insight into why this is the case. Specifically, spelling-meaning training increased neural effort in dorsal pathway brain regions typically involved in reading aloud, and did not provide any benefit in terms of reduced neural effort in ventral pathway brain regions typically involved in reading comprehension. I conclude by discussing the broader contribution that cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience can make to education policy and practice.
Attitudes of residential support workers to clinical psychology and their perceived impact upon working together
Authors: Moore Phil
Published: January 2023

This paper discusses the questionnaire responses of support workers within a residential setting for children with learning disabilities. Responses provide important understanding into carers’ attitudes towards clinical psychologists, and the relevance of contact between the two groups.
Systemic therapy for eating distress
Authors: Gray Catriona , Reed Alex , Williams Tom , Stevenson Chris
Published: January 2023

This paper describes the work of a recently established interdisciplinary systemic therapy team who work as part of a service for adults experiencing eating distress.
Do commissioners care what clinical psychologists do?
Authors: Newnes Craig
Published: January 2023

This article explores some of the concerns of professionals and commissioners with particular reference to the reflective practitioner position and its maintenance in today’s NHS.
The psychoanalytic view of child sexual abuse: past errors and continuing relevance
Authors: Skelly Allan
Published: January 2023

Far from existing only as a fantasy, incest is thus also a fact … Where the chances of harming a child’s normal developmental growth are concerned, it ranks higher than abandonment, neglect, physical maltreatment or any other form of abuse. It would be a fatal mistake to underrate either the importance or the frequency of its actual occurrence (Anna Freud, 1981: p.34).
Working with voices: 10 years gone
Authors: Cooke Anne , Meddings Sara
Published: January 2023

On 10 and 11 September 1998,Anne CookeandSara Meddingsattended the tenth anniversary conference of the Hearing Voices Network in Birmingham
Gender identity and women with learning disabilities: the third sex
Authors: Burns Jan
Published: January 2023

Louise is a woman with Down’s Syndrome. She was referred because the staff at her residential home are concerned that she has an eating disorder. She has lost three stones in the last few months and is now slightly below the average weight for a woman of her height. Louise is 40, but presents as a woman of a much younger age. She likes to wear crop tops, appear fashionable, dance andflirt with young men.
Living with a disability: a service user’s account
Authors: Schwartz Pamela
Published: January 2023

The voice of the very people the psychological literature on learning disabilities is talking about is rarely heard. For this special edition we asked a woman who has extensively tused services for people with learning disabilities 0 write an account of what it means for her to live as a woman with a disability.
An audit of a psychology departments quality systems
Authors: Zeb Rabia , Self Roland
Published: January 2023

The new NHS will have quality at its heart... Every part of the NHS, and everyone who works in it should take responsibility for working to improve quality.(Department of Health, 1997).
Providing support to lesbian, gay and bisexual clinical psychology trainees
Authors: Gibbons Jane , Butler Catherine , Watson Robert
Published: January 2023

This paper explores the thinking behind and setting up of a new support scheme targeted at lesbian, gay and bisexual clinical psychology trainees. The journey from conception to reality is explored, detailing the most poignant dilemmas tackled along the way.
Observations of the dialectic between locality service managers and clinical psychology services in learning disability services
Authors: Skelly Alan
Published: January 2023

In this article, I contend that unconscious envy of psychologists’ knowledge and abilities promotes a desire to control or attack them in general managers. I propose that strong service level agreements are necessary to ensure psychologists continue to be managed by other psychologists.
Does client self-booking reduce DNAs in a department of psychological services?
Authors: Reid Daniel , McIvor Maura
Published: January 2023

This paper shows how we reduced the DNA rate for first appointments in a department of psychological services from 31.7 per cent to 3 per cent.
Participation: Are some more equal than others?
Authors: Kagan Carolyn , Castile Sue , Stewart Angela
Published: January 2023

The participation of community residents is considered from external and internal perspectives. Two community activists tell their stories of the possibilities for, obstacles to and exhaustion of participation. A community psychological reflexive practice of participative action research is proposed.
Collaborative clinics: An evaluation of early intervention, joint working and dissemination of mental health services to children with learning disability
Authors: Metcalfe Ruth , Watson Tracy , Watson Claire
Published: January 2023

How do we do it all? Clinical psychologists working in community paediatrics are awash in a sea of new opportunities and developments, which are both welcome and overwhelming. It is time to either sink or swim.
Policy into practice: The challenge of inreach mental health services for young people within a prison environment
Authors: Coule Jacquie , McCarthy Janet , Hardy Kate
Published: January 2023

Recent government policy has led a drive for the provision of inreach NHS mental health services to local prison populations. This is one account of a project to develop an inreach mental health service for young women (16–18 years old), piloted over a six-month period.
The development of a service framework for sexual issues arising on a neurorehabilitation unit
Authors: Gregory James , Clegg Frances
Published: January 2023

A need was identified for a framework to support staff in their work with neurorehab inpatients who raised issues of sexual well-being. Few such frameworks exist in the UK, and the process of developing a suitable one is described in this article.
British psychology’s response to the Iraq War 2003-4
Authors: Roberts Ron
Published: January 2023

The official response of the British psychological community to the Iraq war is examined by surveying material published inThe Psychologist. Evidence suggests a failure to engage with the substantive issues raised by the war in Iraq.
Healing for the healers: A report on teaching nurses meditation
Authors: Kowalski Reinhard
Published: January 2023

This article describes meditation courses for healthcare workers that were developed and run by the author in two NHS Trusts.
Debunking the ‘pseudoscience’ debunkers
Authors: Mollon Phil
Published: January 2023

The writings of those who claim to debunk pseudoscience may themselves be unscientific and can be used oppressively in debates within clinical psychology and the NHS.
Notes from the Chair
Authors: Cate Tim
Published: January 2023

Tim Cateon New Ways of Working and developments with the new Mental Health Bill
Personal therapy for trainees?
Authors: Timms Jo
Published: January 2023

Clinical psychologists in the UK are currently not obliged to engage in personal therapy whilst training, despite this being mandatory for other professionals who provide psychotherapy. This paper considers the potential benefits of personal therapy for trainees.
A study of user involvement in the University of Exeter D.Clin.Psych. course selection, 2005
Authors: Joyce P.F. , Downs Sylvia
Published: January 2023

This study assessed the effects of involving users in selecting Exeter University doctorate students. Users, panel members and successful applicants were questioned to see how the experience had influenced them. Generally the responses were favourable and recommendations are made on the ways in which users can be supported.
Getting on clinical psychology training courses: Responses to frequently asked questions (part 2)
Authors: Papworth Mark
Published: January 2023

New psychology graduates require a great deal of guidance associated with the career route into clinical psychology. I previously published several fact sheets to facilitate them in this (Papworth, 2004). Below are three further fact sheets which form a final addendum to this earlier article.
Buying and selling sex: Perspectives on commercial sex work
Authors: Stevenson Clare , O’Donovan Amanda
Published: January 2023

A report on the DCP Faculty of HIV and Sexual Health conference.
Society Awards for professional psychologists
Authors: D’Netto Christine
Published: January 2023

Christine D’Nettoasks you to consider nominating your colleagues
Self-selecting first appointments: A replication and consideration of the implications for patient-centred care
Authors: Carey Timothy A. , Kemp Kim
Published: January 2023

A system of self-selecting first appointments resulted in reduced DNAs when compared with a system of allocated first appointments replicating Reid and McIvor’s (2005) results.
With partnership in Mind
Authors: Barulis Denise , Groome Georgina
Published: January 2023

This paper reports on a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) community programme run by Oxfordshire Mind in conjunction with the NHS. We aim to show how working in a non-statutory/NHS partnership can yield benefits greater than the sum of its parts.
Reflections on a specialist groupwork placement
Authors: Howard Ruth , Holmes Guy
Published: January 2023

This article is a first person account of a clinical psychology specialist groupwork placement undertaken in 2005–6 by a trainee clinical psychologist.
Notes from the Chair
Authors: Cate Tim
Published: January 2023

Tim Catelooks at the Division of Clinical Psychology’s work over the past month
A pilot study of self-referring in primary care
Authors: Carey Timothy A. , McKean Lindsay , Mullan Richard J.
Published: January 2023

A three-month period of self-referring was trialled in two GP practices with encouraging results and lessons learned about the promotion of this approach.
Client discontinuation of NHS psychological therapy revisited
Authors: Jones Fergal , Carraretto Katherine , Deacon Louise
Published: January 2023

We report a service evaluation that found that younger adults were more likely to discontinue from National Health Service cognitive behavioural therapy for adults.
Did it mean anything to you? Reflections on the initial phase of a CAMHS user-satisfaction and participation project aiming to reach meaningful outcomes
Authors: Lockhart Gavin
Published: January 2023

This article reflects on the outcomes of a pilot user satisfaction and participation project within our locality Tier 2 & 3 CAMHS Team, highlighting key issues and challenges when considering projects of this nature both within CAMHS and across client groups.
Solution-focused brief therapy and autism
Authors: Bliss Vicky
Published: January 2023

Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) offers a more person-centred and positive approach to working with people who have autism. SFBT focuses on strengths and ways of achieving desired futures, rather than on deficits and helping people fit into a ‘neurotypical’ world.
National Autistic Society accreditation: A clinical psychology perspective
Authors: Brown Rachel
Published: January 2023

In the context of developing autism-specific services in Oldham, accreditation from the National Autistic Society was sought. This process of service development, and the contribution of clinical psychology to it, is described.
Diagnosis and undiagnosis of autistic spectrum disorders: If you want to get out of it, you’ve got to get into it
Authors: Hare Dougal Julian
Published: January 2023

Clinical psychologists often avoid involvement in the process of ‘diagnosis’. However, this can lead to people erroneously receiving the ASD ‘label’ from psychiatry on the basis of inadequate information when ‘diagnosis’ based on a psychological formulation would be much more constructive.
Developing skills in consultation 1: The current context
Authors: Lake Nick
Published: January 2023

There is increasing pressure for clinical psychologists to adopt ‘consultation’ as a core part of their work, even in the early stages of their career. This is the first of four connected papers. It highlights the political and economic climate within the NHS that is creating this pressure, explores what is meant by consultation work, and makes suggestions for how we might adapt our training and career development pathways so that we are better prepared to offer this type of this work. The second paper looks at a specific consultation model that has proved helpful in enabling psychologists to take on effective consultation roles in teams. The third and fourth papers consist of a series of personal reflections on the process of developing consultation roles within teams. They highlight some of the challenges faced and lessons learnt from doing this work which we hope will be valuable to others.
Evaluation of bipolar affective disorder training for carers of those with learning disability
Authors: Jefferies Natalie
Published: January 2023

This paper evaluates an eight-week bipolar affective disorder training course run by a community learning disability team for those who care for people with a dual diagnosis of learning disability and bipolar affective disorder. A questionnaire evaluated pre and post knowledge on bipolar affective disorder. Evaluation forms completed at the end of each session appraised the group.
Clinical psychologist in paediatrics working in a diabetes clinic: An audit example
Authors: Martin Clarissa , Marr Abby , Liveley Katie , Southall Angela
Published: January 2023

This article explores the role of a clinical psychologist in paediatrics working in a diabetes clinic, using a service evaluation relating to patients’ care in diabetes for reflection.
The impact of neuropsychological assessments on the care programmes of people who use adult mental health services
Authors: McNicholl Declan , Burns Jan , Young Angela
Published: January 2023

This study investigated the impact of a neuropsychological assessment service on the care programmes of adults who use mental health services. Key workers’ knowledge and use of these assessments was analysed. Their opinions of the service and suggestions for improvements were obtained.
Changing rooms: One door opens, another closes
Authors: Minton Rebecca , Olenik Jennifer , Priest Penny
Published: January 2023

This qualitative study explores the experiences of people who have changed therapy rooms during ongoing psychological work. Results suggest that changing rooms can affect people in terms of feeling safe, finding comfort, feeling valued and feeling equal.
‘Not why but how’ – Involving users of learning disability services in recruiting clinical psychologists: A recruitment learning curve
Authors: McCarthy Teri , Sheppard Jacky
Published: January 2023

This article describes how service users with learning disabilities were offered the opportunity to take part in interviewing clinical psychologists. The experience was felt to have achieved a meaningful model of involvement, with lessons being learned in an evolving process.
Beneath the CORE: Why do some psychological therapists see mental health clients with sub-clinical scores?
Authors: Smith Ruth , Paxton Roger
Published: January 2023

Structured Interviews with psychological therapists in a Mental Health Trust investigated reasons for taking on clients scoring below the CORE-OM clinical threshold. It is suggested that client and therapist expectations regarding the outcome of referral to secondary services may be an important reason for such decisions.
Mental capacity is everyone’s business: Use of a consultation model to support the assessment of capacity to manage direct payments
Authors: Willner Paul , Morris Lisa , Fisher Samantha
Published: January 2023

We describe the use of a consultation model to support care managers in a learning disabilities service to assess the capacity of 45 service users to manage direct payments. All assessments were completed within the consultation session, and care managers expressed a high degree of confidence in the outcomes. Subsequently, care managers also rated themselves as more knowledgeable and confident in their ability to undertake these assessments; they also thought that this consultation process could be helpful to other teams.
Peer supervision where everyone has a voice
Authors: Simmonds Lincoln
Published: January 2023

This paper describes a peer supervision group using ideas from narrative therapy. The supervision structure incorporated the technique of using an uutsider witness group in order to acknowledge and celebrate the diversity of experiences and theoretical backgrounds among participants in process of supervision.
East London Sexual Assault Service: The re-establishment of a local, specialist health service for female and male survivors of sexual assault post-Havens
Authors: Vidal Maria
Published: January 2023

Improving access to services, as well as providing efficient assessment and follow-up support, are essential in the care of people who have disclosed sexual assault. This article discusses the development of a local sexual assault service in east London.
Re-establishing effective ways of working in a residential service for adults with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Redding Anna , Syme Fiona , Cate Tim
Published: January 2023

An evaluation of current ways of working, and of staff and clients’ interactions, in a residential unit for adults with autism spectrum disorders and challenging behaviour was conducted using participant observation. Key areas for improvement included communication, consistency, proactive strategies, crisis management and job purpose. More effective ways of working were re-established and maintained at two month follow up.
An evaluation of clinical psychology services in a psychiatric rehabilitation setting
Authors: Berry Katherine , Stones Kathryn
Published: January 2023

We assessed satisfaction with a clinical psychology service in a psychiatric rehabilitation setting and whether the psychologist met the objectives set out at the beginning of her post.
Positive mental health promotion amongst the Tamil community: The development of a community-led model
Authors: Watts Clare , Robjant Katy
Published: January 2023

This article explores the development of a consultative model to promote positive mental health amongst ethnic minority communities in a variety of settings. We examine the potential dilemmas encountered when embarking on this type of project.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy in a prison setting
Authors: Ayres Helen , Koch Claudia
Published: January 2023

This paper discusses the experiences of a community psychiatric nurse (CPN) and a clinical psychologist using cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) as part of an adult mental health team within a prison setting.
Is it in writing now? Changing practice in an adolescent mental health team
Authors: Gilchrist Anne , McMillan Avril , Paterson Jenny
Published: January 2023

A repeat investigation of written communication with patients by a multidisciplinary Tier 2–4 adolescent CAMHs team found increased use of written communication. We highlight the need to explore young people’s views, and for further training and practice development.
The Gwent Child and Family Bibliotherapy Scheme: A way of improving access to psychological therapies
Authors: James Victoria , McCann Shelley , Richards Leah , McDonnell Lynn
Published: January 2023

This article presents an innovative bibliotherapy scheme set up in Gwent for children and their families. The development of the scheme and public and professional experience of it is detailed, as described by a recent evaluation.
What happens now? A post-diagnosis workshop for parents of children with Asperger’s syndrome/high functioning autism
Authors: Armstrong Heather , Koehler Katie
Published: January 2023

This paper reports on a one-day intervention designed to increase parents’ sense of self-efficacy following their child’s diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome/high functioning autism.
Therapists’ experiences of delivering Stop and Think! Reflections challenges and recommendations
Authors: Asplin Nicky , Horler Martin , Marshall Philip , Huband Nick
Published: January 2023

This paper reflects on the experience of delivering a social problem-solving intervention (Stop and Think!) in the community with clients with personality disorder. In describing our experiences we highlight what we found helpful and some of the challenges we faced.
Suitability of Clinical Outcome in Routine Evaluation as a predictor of frequency of risk behaviours in an inpatient mental health setting
Authors: Rowsell Melanie , Stennett-Cox Nigel
Published: January 2023

The present study investigated the suitability of CORE as a predictor of frequency of risk behaviours in an inpatient mental health setting. We tested for possible presence and strength of any predictive risk behaviour loading on non-‘Risk’ questions.
Learning disability: Eligibility for services, and the developing service ethos
Authors: Leyin Alan
Published: January 2023

Within the context of assessment for ‘eligibility’ (for services), this article questions the ability of the developing service ethos to meet recent aspirations: that services should be ‘locally led, patient-centred and clinically driven’ (DH, 2008).
Access to talking therapies: The views and experiences of people from Black and minority ethnic communities in secondary care in East London
Authors: Morgan Ruth , Khan Anoushka , McFarlane Fiona , Thomas Lois , Sautoy Shani Ram du
Published: January 2023

The views on talking therapies held by members of African-Caribbean, Orthodox Jewish, Turkish, Turkish-Kurdish and Vietnamese communities in one London borough are investigated. Key themes among different communities and barriers to accessing therapies are identified with recommendations for improving access.
Primary care mental health teams: Where are all the older people?
Authors: Broomfield Niall M. , Birch Lucy
Published: January 2023

We report a referral audit of older people into primary care mental health teams in NHS Greater Glasgow. Although they comprise 16 per cent of the local population, referral rates for older people were 3.21 per cent. We discuss the implications of these findings, and potential solutions.
Referrers’ views of a psychological therapies service
Authors: Binks Claire , Jones Fergal , Camic Paul
Published: January 2023

This paper outlines referring practitioners’ experiences and understanding of a psychological therapies service (PTS), 18 months after its inception, in terms of its aims, referral process and communication. Positive and negative experiences and the implications of the findings are discussed.
Psychodynamic approach to trauma and loss: Critique of underlying theory and contrast with cognitive behavioural approach
Authors: Russell Paul
Published: January 2023

This paper emerged from the author’s concern that mental health commissioners may interpret NICE recommendations as meaning that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a panacea. It documents the case of an individual for whom CBT may have been an appropriate but not necessarily optimal intervention. IThe case outline is followed by a critical analysis of cognitive behavioural and Kleinian approaches, concluding that the Kleinian approach offered long-term advantages to this client.
Developing aims and evaluation criteria for reflective practice groups in older people’s mental health inpatient services
Authors: Daynes Shona , Gerry Louise , Boyd Sarah , Crellin Clare
Published: January 2023

Reflective practice groups are being used in West Sussex’s older people’s mental health inpatient services to improve essential care standards. This article outlines the development of the aims and evaluation criteria for these groups, alongside findings from the pilot group.
Perspectives on New Ways of Working in secondary community mental health services: Personal reflections
Authors: Crawford-Docherty Anne , Detheridge Ann , Butler Winsome , Crowther-Green Ross , Day Victoria , O’Shea Michelle , Wilkinson Katie
Published: January 2023

This article offers an insight into the experiences of psychologists working within multidisciplinary teams. Through personal reflections on New Ways of Working key themes are identified. A working model based on the psychologists’ positioning within the team is proposed.
The gender identity development service: Examples of multi-agency working
Authors: Eracleous Helen , Davidson Sarah
Published: January 2023

This paper explores multi-agency working and some lessons learnt when working with young people with complex presentations. Examples are offered from the work at the gender identity development service (GIDS) where the authors are based.
Cognitive stimulation therapy for inpatient brain injury rehabilitation: A pilot study of feasibility
Authors: Parrett N.S. , Ghossain D.
Published: January 2023

Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST), originally developed in dementia, was piloted on an inpatient brain injury rehabilitation population to determine feasibility. A modified version was trialled with five participants. Orientation, challenging behaviour and cognition showed significant improvement overall.
Name dropping: A brief opinion on why changes in a client’s name might be significant
Authors: Mason Jonathan
Published: January 2023

Anecdotal observations, backed up by a small amount of research evidence, suggest that a significant minority of people detained under the Mental Health Act change their name during the course of treatment. The significance of this is discussed.
Developing recovery-oriented practice
Authors: Cupitt Caroline , Wolfson Paul , Rocha Ewa Okon , Masterson Dave , Popelyuk Dmitri
Published: January 2023

We describe how an audit of recovery-oriented practice within community mental health teams has provided detailed information to guide service development.
Increasing the utility of psychological formulation: A case example from an acute mental health ward
Authors: Robson Jenna , Quayle Genevieve
Published: January 2023

This article outlines the potential utility of indirect psychological work, relating to communicating psychological formulations to multidisciplinary teams (MDTs). A model of communication is described, based on a case example.
Parenting a child with a learning disability: Meaning making and connection breaking
Authors: Ellis Julie
Published: January 2023

There is a dearth of literature on attachment and adjustment in the context of children with a learning disability. This paper puts forward the author’s thoughts regarding working with entrenched Parent-Child relationship issues in this field.
Prevalence of psychological distress in general practitioner adult attendees
Authors: Hughes Martina , Byrne Michael , Synnott Joy
Published: January 2023

One in three Irish GP practice adult attendees were found to have varying degrees of psychological distress. That 89 per cent were not receiving treatment for their mental health problems also highlights the need for improved primary care mental health services.
Evaluating community psychology for African individuals with a diagnosis of HIV
Authors: Tacconelli Erasmo , Shaw Liz , Sachikonye Memory
Published: January 2023

This paper describes the implementation and evaluation of a community psychology intervention for HIV positive Africans at an HIV Drop-in for HIV positive people. The evaluation found that participants benefitted from the sessions and experienced increased empowerment suggesting that this type of initiative is useful in such settings.
Huntington’s disease: My experience as an assistant psychologist
Authors: Matheson Kirsty , Summers Fiona , Simpson Sheila A.
Published: January 2023

This article reflects upon my experience as an assistant psychologist working with those whose lives are affected by Huntington’s disease (HD). I describe the complex issues clients face and illustrate the importance of clinical psychology and neuropsychology services with this population.
What are clinical psychologists doing in a forensic medium secure unit?
Authors: Randal Chloe , Wood Harry
Published: January 2023

An audit conducted within the psychology department of a medium secure unit identified how psychologists spent their time at work. Indirect clinical work took up much of the psychologists’ time. Direct client contact accompanied a significant amount of preparatory/report-writing work.
An evaluation of individuals’ experiences of attending a low-intensity advice clinic in primary care
Authors: Grant Karra J. , McMeekin Liz , White Jim
Published: January 2023

Advice clinics offer large numbers of individuals seeking psychological support access to a therapist for a short, one-off session and have been found to be efficient and effective. This paper presents findings from an evaluation of individuals’ experiences of attending the advice clinic.
Psychological research mentored by a survivor activist: Having your cake and eating it!
Authors: Pembroke Louise , Hadfield Jo
Published: January 2023

In this article we present our experiences of a survivor activist (Louise) mentoring the research of a trainee clinical psychologist (Jo).
Developing an effective partnership with the community development worker service
Authors: Farquharson Lorna , Glover Dominic
Published: January 2023

Community development workers are key components of the Delivering Race Equality programme. This paper outlines the steps involved in building an effective partnership and the benefits of this for developing a more accessible and appropriate psychological therapies service.
A CBT-based self-esteem group within an eating disorders day-patient service
Authors: Jenkins Paul E.
Published: January 2023

This article reports on a brief intervention addressing low self-esteem in an eating disorders day-patient group. Support for the inclusion of such an intervention is demonstrated and further suggestions for research are made in light of the findings.
Perceived barriers preventing older adults accessing primary care mental health teams
Authors: McMillan Amy , Carr Elaine , Murray Fiona
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to identify and explore the barriers to older adults accessing a primary care mental health team. We discuss the implications of our findings and suggest service improvements in order to address identified barriers.
Men in a female-majority profession: Q-sort narratives of male clinical psychology trainees
Authors: Baker Martyn
Published: January 2023

In a development of research reported in a previous issue ofForum(December 2007), we present four narratives from male trainees’ Q-sorts of statements about attraction to working in clinical psychology.
Words
Authors: Angel Morgana
Published: January 2023

I am an experienced clinical psychologist (Brenda D. Townes, Ph.D.) working with many clients who have severe and prolonged physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Often the abuse begins in childhood and extends into marital relationships. Recently one of my clients shared with me some poetry that she had written as a way of coming to terms with her extensive history of abuse. With her permission the poems are given below in the hope that they may be of some help to others– Brenda D. Townes, Wakefield House, EDT, Warrington
Challenges to psychology from an international perspective: Activities of the International Union of Psychological Science
Authors: Bullock Merry
Published: January 2023

This paper provides an overview of challenges to clinical psychology at the international level, and of activities of the International Union of Psychological Science that support the development of clinical and professional psychology and the development of global consensus about central professional constructs.
Clinical psychology training in South Africa
Authors: Lund Crick , Kagee Ashraf , Wood Nick
Published: January 2023

Clinical psychology training in South Africa faces numerous challenges. This article documents the historical context and current status of training programmes, and argues for the reform of training curricula, in line with evidence-based practice and more equitable provision of services.
Supervision: The supervisee’s perspective (and the way we want you to do it)
Authors: East Philippa
Published: January 2023

This article presents findings from an email survey of newly-qualified clinical psychologists exploring the dos and don’ts of supervision. The responses reflect the breadth and significance of the supervision role and provide some helpful guidance on conducting effective supervision.
Internal referral processes in child and adolescent mental health services
Authors: Haywood Pennie , Rahman Khaleda , Bruce Helen , Huntley Tim
Published: January 2023

This paper explores the decision-making processes when referring between disciplines across two CAMHSs and one adolescent mental health team in Tower Hamlets. Within these teams, the practitioners’ perceptions of the treatments offered by clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, child psychotherapists and family therapists were also explored.
Sex and adults with learning disabilities: More warmth, less heat
Authors: Jones Chris
Published: January 2023

Most adults with learning disabilities seek love, sex and romance, but are faced with many obstacles. A service in Oxfordshire that seeks actively to promote and support romantic relationships is described, and contentious issues arising from this are discussed.
Trainee clinical psychologists’ experience of facilitating a Compassionate Mind Training group for people with mental health difficulties
Authors: Stewart Stephen Denner , Holland Sarah
Published: January 2023

COMPASSION FOCUSED Therapy was developed by Professor Paul Gilbert for individuals with high shame and self-criticism. During our second year of doctorate training in clinical psychology at the University of Plymouth we facilitated a Compassionate Mind Training group for adults with mental health difficulties within our placement area. This article outlines the background and outcomes of this group, as well as presenting our own personal reflections on facilitating the group and group members’ feedback on attending the group.
Hope in recovery-focused mental health settings
Authors: Wright Jennifer , Barber Miranda
Published: January 2023

This paper explores the role that hope has in recovery-focused mental health settings. Current literature that explores hope inspiration in both service users and professionals is discussed.
A group approach to facilitate family-focused coping with HIV+ African parents in London
Authors: Campbell Tomás , Griffiths Jayne , Beer Hannah , Tungana Jane , Bostock Vicky , Parrett Neil
Published: January 2023

We describe a group approach to address family-focused coping for African parents with HIV living in the UK. Participants completed questionnaires at baseline and at completion of the intervention. The results will be used to inform and strengthen the design and content of future interventions.
‘Not old enough for the dementia service’: Can clinical psychology services be delivered on the basis of patients’ needs rather than their dates of birth?
Authors: Line Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2023

This article describes a retrospective service evaluation of a number of parenting groups for parents with children who have behavioural difficulties. Furthermore, this article compares the outcomes achieved by behavioural parenting groups and cognitive behavioural parenting groups.
Marketing clinical psychology
Authors: Craven-Staines Sarah , Hopper Sarah , Dexter-Smith Sarah
Published: January 2023

This paper describes our attempt to market our older people’s clinical psychology specialty to respond to national directives and to promote better understanding of our skills on a local level.
What does ‘client centredness’ look like to clients?
Authors: Agnew Francis , Crossan Amanda , Davies Mark , Hanna Declan , Johnston Barbara , McClements Roger , Tsang Sue-Mun
Published: January 2023

This paper presents the perceptions of a group of clients who attend a clinical health psychology department. It is hoped that the comments made offer an insight into how client centredness translates into client experience.
An audit of clinical psychology referrals in a hospice setting
Authors: Balls Makala , Kalus Christine
Published: January 2023

This article describes the findings from an audit of clinical psychology referrals within a hospice. Issues related to the role of clinical psychology in Specialist Palliative Care (SPC) and in conducting further audit and research in this area are discussed.
Bonding with baby: A pilot parent-infant intervention programme in Liverpool
Authors: Barkby Helen , Butterworth Ruth , Davies Jenny , Marsland Lisa , O’Shaughnessy Ruth
Published: January 2023

Research in parent-infant mental health, particularly studies in attachment, convincingly shows that parents have a profound influence on their child’s emotional development and mental health. This paper outlines a brief, video-feedback approach to supporting parent-infant mental health, based on the work of P.O. Svanberg and colleagues in Sunderland.
Exploring compliance with NICE guidelines for borderline personality disorder
Authors: Dunne Emma , Rogers Bertha , Acton Timothy , Kelly Brid
Published: January 2023

This audit was undertaken to monitor adherence to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE, 2009) guidelines on borderline personality disorder (BPD) within an NHS Trust.
Assessing psychological need in the first six months following a cardiac event
Authors: Thew Graham , Dyson Judith , Chaferab Sarah , Frizellab Dorothy J.
Published: January 2023

This paper describes a service evaluation project to identify psychological need among patients recovering from a cardiac event. Results suggest interesting possibilities for early psychological intervention to address issues that affect the recovery process and future cardiac risk.
A survey of clinical psychologists to explore their decision to supervise trainee clinical psychologists
Authors: Lok Andrew , Shannon Ciaran , Dempster Martin
Published: January 2023

This paper is an account of a survey completed with clinical psychologists in Northern Ireland investigating what factors influence the decision to supervise trainee clinical psychologists using the Theory of Planned Behaviour.
Implementing the NICE schizophrenia guidelines’ psychological therapies recommendations in a South East London Borough: A service evaluation project
Authors: Richardson Matthew , Oldershaw Anna
Published: January 2023

This article describes a service evaluation project investigating the implementation of the NICE Guidance for Schizophrenia Psychological Therapy Recommendations in two CMHTs in South East London. The project identified good practice and obstacles that hindered equitable access to psychological therapy for CMHT clients.
Taking care of me: Evaluation of a carers’ group
Authors: Christofides Stella , Heath Gill
Published: January 2023

We describe how psychological skills were incorporated into a group for people who care for a relative with mental health difficulties and share carers’ experiences of the programme.