Services

Our Services

We provide Evidence-Based Psychological Services in a variety of Clinical and Forensic Contexts.

Assessment

In plain language, Assessment is the process of gathering information in order to make sense of the situation or presenting problem.  The aims of assessment are to establish a good working alliance (i.e. work that is collaborative and feels safe/trusting) and to reach a Preliminary Formulation (see below).

Assessment typically involves an interview/discussion about the presenting problems and may involve psychological testing (pen and paper tasks, rating scales, checklists).

Psychological Formulation

A formulation is a working hypothesis or ‘mini-theory’ that offers explanations as to:

• why and how the presenting problem(s) developed
• why it may be persisting
• what factors may prevent it getting worse
• And, what might be done to improve the situation.

The whole purpose of a formulation is to provide more than simply a diagnosis or label.  It offers an understanding as to why things have worked out as they have.  A formulation should be a ‘shared understanding’ between psychologist/therapist and client.  It offers opportunities to address the problem.

Having an understanding and model as to why things are as they are (or why you are feeling as you do) is enough for some people to address their difficulties and make changes themselves. In other instances targeted Intervention/Therapy leads on from a sound Psychological Formulation.

Therapy/Intervention

Therapy or Intervention are the techniques used to address and reduce the impact of the presenting problems.  We offer tailored and individualised therapy based on Solution-Focussed Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural techniques (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).  These approaches are talking therapies that also provide strategies to help people minimise distress and improve their day-to-day functioning. During the Assessment phase we will work with you to address the issues and give you the strategies to tackle these in the future.

Neuropsychology Services

Depending upon the case, we are able to provide comprehensive Neuropsychological Assessment, Intervention and Advice for a range of neuropsychological issues.  Neuropsychological assessment typically involves the assessment of cognitive functioning in the areas of attention, speed of processing, memory, perception and executive functioning (problem solving).  ACC services usually provide neuropsychological services following concussion and/or traumatic brain injury but we would be willing to discuss your referral request and suggest ways forward.

In Forensic matters a neuropsychological opinion may be sought to address questions around an individual’s cognitive abilities in relation to a criminal matter or civil proceedings.

(See FAQ – What is a neuropsychologist?)

Consultation/Advice

As opposed to engaging in formal therapy, we are able to provide confidential general advice to individuals or services on psychological issues or mental health concerns.  Examples include:

• advice on appropriate psychological treatments and services for a range of mental health conditions (Incl. developmental difficulties, acquired brain injury etc).
• supporting families with a family member in distress (including coaching skills and problem solving)

Supervision

Subject to arrangement, Jon is able to provide face-to-face case-specific or ongoing professional supervision. Alternatively, clinical supervision can be provided at a reduced rate via teleconference/Skype. Jon is able to provide clinical supervision relating to adult mental health provision, forensic mental health and clinical neuropsychology. Clinical supervision fees are negotiable.

Expert Witness and Forensic Services

We provide a range of expert witness services to instructing lawyers and/or the Courts in New Zealand. All of our work is conducted in conjunction with the High Court Code of Conduct for Expert Witnesses (Schedule 4) and the New Zealand Psychologists’ Board Code of Ethics.

We are accustomed to working across a range of New Zealand jurisdictions including the Youth Court, Family Court, District Courts and the High Court. We have also provided evidence to assist the Office of the Coroner and in matters of the Court of Appeal. Typical legislation we have worked within includes: the Criminal Procedure (Mentally Impaired Persons) Act 2003, the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment & Treatment) Act 1992, and the Intellectual Disability (Compulsory Care & Rehabilitation) Act 2003.

Examples of forensic work include:

• Assessment and report writing: assisting the Court in matters relating of mens rea (mental state at the time of the alleged incident); Competency to Waive Bill of Rights; Fitness to Stand Trial evaluations; Disputed Facts matters; Issues regarding Sentencing (e.g. mitigating circumstances or provocation issues) and Disposition options (e.g. provision under IDCCR Act 2003).
• Risk Assessment of recidivism.
• Critiquing of psychological reports placed before the Court.
• Briefs of Evidence.
• Expert witness testimony