FAQs

Do I need to see a Psychiatrist?

If you are experiencing mental distress that is stopping you being able to function as well as you would like to, I can help you. If this is the first time you have had difficulties or they are not bothering you most of the time, your GP can also treat mild to moderate mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. If their treatments have not worked you would then need a specialist review with a psychiatrist. If you think you might have a major mental health disorder (i.e. bipolar disorder) or neurodevelopmental condition you will need to see a Psychiatrist to diagnose this. If you require medication for ADHD you will also need to see a psychiatrist.

Should I see a private Psychiatrist?

The NHS provides access to Psychiatrists for all those with mental disorders that cannot be managed by GPs. However, there can be long waiting lists depending on need. I can usually offer a private appointment in a much shorter time frame. Our NHS is staffed by a mix of junior and senior doctors. Some people prefer being able to choose who they see so opt for private care. Private care can be tailored more closely with your preferences and convenience. Ultimately you should get a good standard of care in the NHS or privately, so it is your choice.

There are people whose needs are better served in the NHS. If you or your loved one is at high risk or is experiencing the type of mental health disorder that requires frequent monitoring (i.e. acutely suicidal, or active psychosis) your community mental health team can be accessed quickly via ACCESS or GP and have a whole team approach that will keep you safe and well.

Will you be able to help me?

I will make sure we address your concerns. Even if you do not meet the criteria for a certain condition, I will still make a treatment plan with you which could include pragmatic use of medications, therapy or lifestyle modifications. If you are worried enough to seek help, then change is needed and I can support and advise on the best way forward. I am often consulted by people who have had treatment elsewhere, and are considered 'treatment- resistant'. I will consider your history of treatment and if possible, find alternative options.

What will happen at the assessment?

I will start your first appointment by 'getting to know you'. I will ask you to describe your life circumstances, such as where you live, and what you do so I can understand more about you and your priorities. Once you are feeling more relaxed we will discuss the problems that you would like help with. I will also ask about things that are going well in your life so that we can draw on your existing strengths and interests to tailor your treatment plan.

Can I bring someone with me?

It is very helpful to bring someone with you to support you and to provide another perspective. You can choose to have them in for the whole appointment or just at the beginning or end.

Will you see my child alone?

I always offer the opportunity for young people to speak to me without a parent present if they want to. This would only take place once you had both met me and the young person was feeling at ease. This is optional and many young people do not choose to do so.

What will happen after I have the assessment?

After your assessment you will recieve a comprehensive report. This will be clear evidence of the assessment process and outcome. The report can then be shared with any relevant third parties such as schools or other health professionals. If I am going to prescribe for you or your child, that information will need to be passed on to your GP, but if there is personal information you do not want to share, I can tailor the communication accordingly.

How will I get the medication you prescribe?

I can prescribe you medication on a private prescription. For convenience, I will usually send this to a Pharmacy that will deliver the medication directly to you. There will be a cost for the medication to pay directly to the Pharmacy, (ranging from a few pounds to upwards of a hundred pounds per month depending on the prescription).

An alternative can be that I will make recommendations for medication and your GP can prescribe. This will mean you do not have to pay. This is only a possibility for some medications.

Will you do shared care with my GP?

Shared care is the best outcome after stabilising on treatment , particularly ADHD treatment which requires monthly prescriptions. After you are on a stable and effective treatment dose (usually three months) I will request shared care if your GP surgery is accepting such plans. I have a high rate of acceptance as I am a Consultant practicing inline with the NHS requirements , however some surgeries have opted not to accept any shared care (Even from NHS services) and others will not accept any private Shared Care plans.