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Private Psychology & Psychiatry services at our Dublin and Galway Clinics 

If you are struggling with your mental health, you may need to be referred to a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or a psychiatrist. 

A psychologist is a mental health professional who specialises in the study of the human mind and behaviour. They use talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), or psychotherapy, to help patients manage their mental health conditions. They do not prescribe medication. 

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental health. They can diagnose and treat mental health conditions and are able to prescribe medication. They may also use talk therapy in conjunction with medication to help manage mental health conditions. 

It is important to note that both psychologists and psychiatrists are trained professionals who can provide effective treatment for mental health conditions. The type of professional you see will depend on your individual needs and the nature of your mental health condition.  

Your GP will be able to advise you on which type of professional is most suitable for you. With the right care and support, it is possible to manage and overcome mental health conditions and improve your overall well-being. 

Psychology & Psychiatry at Blackrock Health 

Blackrock Health hospitals offer access to consultant psychologists and psychiatrists. They provide treatment for mental health conditions, primarily on an outpatient basis. Hermitage Clinic also provides some limited inpatient mental health services for adults. 

Some of our services are only available in select locations. Please check with your preferred location to confirm that the service you seek is offered there. 

Please note, we do not accept emergency referrals for this specialty at Blackrock Health hospitals. 

Who we treat

Our teams provide outpatient services to patients referred by their GP. We also provide support to patients receiving medical and surgical inpatient care in our three hospitals. 

Psychologists typically work with individuals who have:  

  • Behavioural problems  

  • Developmental issues  

  • Mental health disorders  

  • Psychological distress  

Psychiatrists typically work with individuals who have  

  • Severe mental illness.  

  • medication management  

  • Complex cases  

Types of psychology

Clinical psychology

Clinical psychology is concerned with the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders and psychological distress. Clinical psychologists often work in mental health clinics, hospitals, private practices, or other healthcare settings. They provide therapy, counselling, and interventions to individuals, couples, families, and groups. 

Counselling psychology

Counselling psychology focuses on helping individuals deal with everyday life challenges, such as stress, relationship issues, career decisions, and personal growth. Counsellors work with clients to develop coping strategies, improve communication skills, and enhance overall well-being. They may work in schools, colleges, community centers, or private practices. 

Developmental psychology

Developmental psychology explores how people grow, develop, and change over the lifespan, from infancy to old age. Developmental psychologists study various aspects of development, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development, and examine factors that influence growth and maturation. 

Educational psychology

Educational psychology examines the psychological processes involved in learning, teaching, and educational settings. Educational psychologists study factors that affect student learning and academic achievement, such as motivation, memory, intelligence, and classroom environments. They may work in schools, colleges, educational institutions, or government agencies. 

Social psychology

Social psychology explores how individuals think, feel, and behave in social situations and how social influences shape behavior. Social psychologists study topics such as conformity, obedience, prejudice, group dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and attitudes. They may conduct research in academic settings or apply their findings in various practical contexts. 

What to expect

We have a limited team of psychiatrists who provide adult psychiatric services on an outpatient basis. 

Once we have received your referral, a member of our team will arrange for you to have a consultation with a consultant psychiatrist. They'll spend some time with you to gain an understanding of your illness. 

We do not accept emergency referrals. 

You may be prescribed additional therapies or medication based on your diagnosis. 

Types of mental health issues:
  • Addictive behaviours  

  • Anxiety  

  • Bipolar disorder  

  • Borderline personality disorder 

  • Depression  

  • Eating disorders – Anorexia Nervosa and Bulima Nervosa.  

  • Personality disorders  

  • Schizophrenia.  

Symptoms of mental health issues:  
  • Changes in eating habits. 

  • Excessive feeling of fear. 

  • Extreme mood swings. 

  • Feeling sad 

  • Guilty feelings. 

  • Paranoia. 

  • Severe tiredness. 

  • Suicidal thoughts. 

Risk factors: 
  • A childhood history of abuse or neglect. 

  • A family history of mental illness. 

  • Brain damage. 

  • Stressful life situations. 

  • The death of a loved one. 

  • The overuse of alcohol. 

  • The use of recreational drugs. 

FAQ's 

At Blackrock Health private hospitals in Dublin and Galway, we understand that a visit to our psychiatric clinic can be a stressful experience. 

To help ease your concerns and provide clear information, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions specific to our psychology & psychiatry services. Our goal is to care for our patients and to make your visit as smooth and reassuring as possible. 

What is psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and mental processes. It seeks to understand how people think, feel, and behave in various situations and contexts. 

What do psychologists do?

Psychologists conduct research, diagnose and treat mental health disorders, provide therapy and counselling, conduct assessments and evaluations, develop interventions and treatment plans, and work in various settings such as clinics, hospitals, schools, universities, and private practices. 

What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Psychologists have a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology and specialize in providing therapy, counselling, and psychological assessments. Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders, including prescribing medications. 

What types of therapy do psychologists offer?

Psychologists may offer various types of therapy, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, interpersonal therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and family therapy, among others. 

When should I see a psychologist?

You may consider seeing a psychologist if you are experiencing mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship issues, grief, or difficulties coping with life changes. Psychologists can provide support, guidance, and evidence-based interventions to help you improve your mental well-being. 

What is psychiatry?

Psychiatry is a branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in assessing and managing mental health conditions using a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and other treatment modalities. 

What do psychiatrists do?

Psychiatrists conduct psychiatric evaluations, diagnose mental health disorders, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, provide therapy and counselling, monitor treatment progress, and collaborate with other healthcare providers to provide comprehensive care. 

What types of mental health disorders do psychiatrists treat?

Psychiatrists treat a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), among others. 

What is the difference between psychotherapy and medication management in psychiatry?

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, involves working with a therapist to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviours and develop coping strategies and solutions to improve mental health. Medication management involves prescribing and managing medications to alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders.

When should I see a psychiatrist?

You may consider seeing a psychiatrist if you are experiencing severe or persistent mental health symptoms that interfere with your daily functioning, relationships, or quality of life. Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms, provide an accurate diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your individual needs. 

 

How do I get this?

You will need a referral letter from your GP or consultant before you make an appointment.

Is this insured?

Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you're covered, please check your health insurance before your visit. You can do this on our health insurance cover check page, or by contacting your health insurer. 

How do I pay?

If you do not have health insurance or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay the balance due before your treatment or procedure. You may be able to claim back some fees on your insurance. To pay an excess not covered by your insurance or any other inpatient fees, please visit our payment page. If you have any queries about paying for your care, please contact the finance team in your hospital.

Available at:
  • Blackrock Clinic
  • Galway Clinic
  • Hermitage Clinic
Clinics

Blackrock Clinic

Rock Road, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94E4X7
Psychology & Psychiatry
drstephaniebourke

Dr. Stephanie Bourke

Psychiatry

Blackrock Clinic
drgillianfortune

Dr. Gillian Fortune

Psychology

Blackrock Clinic

<span>Prof. Mathew McCauley</span>

Prof. Mathew McCauley

Psychology

Blackrock Clinic
drbarryodonnell

Dr. Barry O'Donnell

Psychotherapy

Blackrock Clinic

Galway Clinic

Doughiska Galway, Galway H91HHT0
Psychology & Psychiatry
Niamh Flynn

Dr. Niamh Flynn

Psychology

Galway Clinic
drsuzannemcclean

Dr. Suzanne McClean

Psychotherapy

Galway Clinic

Hermitage Clinic

Old Lucan Road, Dublin, D20 W722
Psychology & Psychiatry

Prof. Patricia Casey

Psychiatry

Hermitage Clinic

Dr. Marie McCarthy

Psychology

Hermitage Clinic

Prof. Niall Pender

Psychology

Hermitage Clinic
drmikescully

Dr. Mike Scully

Psychiatry

Hermitage Clinic