For GPs and other referrers

If a patient has developed psychological difficulties after an accident, difficulties at work or an episode of medical care that went wrong, and a claim is being made or considered, an independent clinical psychology assessment gives the patient, their solicitor and the court a clear, quantified account of the injury. I accept referrals directly from GPs and from consultants. I assess adults, and children of all ages.

When to refer

  • Persistent anxiety, low mood, sleep disturbance, flashbacks or avoidance more than a few weeks after an accident or other adverse event
  • Travel anxiety or inability to return to work, school or driving after a road traffic collision
  • Distress following a diagnosis delay, a surgical complication or a medication error (not maternity-related)
  • Work-related stress, bullying or a traumatic incident at work, where a claim is being considered
  • A child whose behaviour, sleep or schooling has changed after an accident or other distressing event
  • A patient whose solicitor has asked for a psychological report

My practice is confined to civil matters. I do not provide reports for criminal proceedings or assess injuries arising from assault or other violent crime.

What to send

An email to info@amckiernan.ie with the patient's name, date of birth and email address, a line or two on the event, the current difficulties, relevant history and any reports. A referral letter in your usual format is fine. The patient does not need to be seen in person; the assessment is by secure video.

What the patient receives

A link to an online assessment form and questionnaires, a video interview of about 90 minutes, and a report sent to the referrer and, where instructed, the solicitor. The report includes evidence-based treatment recommendations, which you or the solicitor can act on. I do not provide treatment myself.

Fee

A single fixed fee for assessment and report, quoted on enquiry.

To refer

Refer a patient — this opens an email with the referral headings filled in. Enquiries are answered promptly, typically within 24 hours.