Clinical Psychology

It is a structured intervention, based on validated models, where psychotherapeutic intervention can be included. Cognitive-behavioral, psychoanalytic, and integrative therapies are examples of psychotherapeutic models used in this consultation. The various types of psychotherapy share a common element: the relationship with the therapist, through which efforts are made to improve self-awareness, identify and correct dysfunctional thought patterns, relational patterns, or behaviors that cause illness or suffering. At JCS, we have psychologists with experience in intervention across various areas:

•    Children – In this case, in addition to the symptoms being specific, the need for intervention is also differentiated. This includes games, assessment of relationships, and interaction with parents and family members.

•    Elderly – Elderly psychology is a distinct area that includes various facets. Memory difficulties, reasoning problems, and often isolation require differentiated intervention. Psychology supporting the elderly is also responsible for sharing information, clarification, and development of techniques for caregivers, thus reducing their risk of burnout/exhaustion.

•    Family members of individuals with mental health issues – Information about illness and treatment, as well as various strategies for dealing with the illness, are among the most effective interventions to ensure that family members receive the necessary support to reduce their potential exhaustion. Family members/caregivers play a crucial role in patient treatment, as they can significantly impact patient adherence to treatment. This is an often undervalued intervention in mental health, but it is of utmost importance.

•    Anxiety disorders, depression, and burnout – These conditions require structured interventions, typically cognitive-behavioral, for improvement, recovery, and personal growth, and may be associated with psychopharmacological treatment.

•    Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – As a complex disorder with a strong impact on performance and frequent comorbidities (anxiety, depression, substance abuse), it requires a differentiated intervention.

•    Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Due to intrusive, unwanted, and unpleasant thoughts, often associated with behaviors performed to relieve the anxiety caused by them, it is one of the many fields of intervention in Psychology/Psychotherapy and requires adapted techniques and interventions.

•    Psychotic disorders – These are very heterogeneous and correspond to various different pathologies. They are characterized by a loss of contact with reality, whether through alterations in perception (hallucinations) or through delusional thinking. They require specialized intervention capacity in both diagnosis and treatment.

It is conducted by a psychologist with specific training and allows for precise evaluation of various functions such as memory, attention, overall functioning, and intelligence. It is crucial for clarifying diagnoses, assessing dementias, and other cognitive changes. It is also of utmost importance for identifying changes in medico-legal assessments or medical boards.

According to the neuropsychological assessment, it is possible to identify cognitive deficits early and provide stimulation through validated techniques. In this way, it is possible to delay the progression of the disease and even achieve functional recovery.

It is one of the interventions performed in a psychology/psychotherapy consultation and aims to provide knowledge about the illness and its treatments, as well as the best methods to achieve the desired outcomes. It is intended for patients and for their family members or caregivers.

Psychiatric cases are often complex, requiring multiple coordinated interventions. This necessitates close collaboration and intervention between Psychiatry and Psychology through a joint consultation. In these consultations, the initial patient evaluation is conducted simultaneously by a psychiatrist and a psychologist, allowing for a more in-depth assessment that includes perspectives from both Psychology and Psychiatry, as well as discussion of the treatment plan and follow-up. These consultations are intended for the initial evaluation; subsequent sessions are conducted individually with the psychiatrist and the psychologist, in a flexible manner adapted to each case.

30% of depressions maintain symptoms despite treatment. These cases often involve a lack of energy, difficulty managing irritability, a lack of patience, and an inability to feel pleasure or enjoy everyday activities. Typically, the response to these issues involves integrated interventions, which may include psychopharmacological strategies with dose adjustments or the addition of techniques such as magnetic stimulation or electroconvulsive therapy, combined with psychological intervention. This may involve identifying harmful habits and lifestyles, strategies to increase resilience and manage stress, and deconstructing negative and self-destructive thought patterns. In this consultation, an assessment of all previous treatments is conducted, and the intervention needs are identified.

Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has specific characteristics and is often overlooked. It frequently presents with depressive symptoms, anxiety, or burnout, which can mask the diagnosis or hinder effective improvement. For appropriate treatment, it is crucial to understand the individual, mood changes throughout their life, and habits and dependencies (whether substance-related or behavioral). Difficulties in task execution and interpersonal relationships are also assessed to develop an appropriate therapeutic plan.

This disorder often remains hidden, leading to a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it. In a joint evaluation, it is possible to conduct a psychiatric assessment of the symptoms and available treatments, alongside a psychological assessment that examines the degree of dysfunction caused, intrusive thoughts, and their implications. A combined treatment plan can be developed, utilizing all recognized effective methods for this condition. This may include medication, which often requires high dosages (aided by laboratory tests to monitor concentration), or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which has shown great effectiveness in these cases. Joint psychological intervention is a way to ensure the maximum effectiveness of treatment for individuals with OCD.

The period of pregnancy and postpartum is a time of significant changes for a woman, including major hormonal fluctuations. It also represents a significant shift in the family unit, presenting substantial challenges to the couple's relationship and interactions with other family members. Postpartum depression is the most well-known condition and requires timely identification and appropriate treatment. However, there are other conditions, such as depression and anxiety during pregnancy, which are very common, or pre-existing conditions like bipolar affective disorder or schizophrenia, that need suitable treatment to protect both the mother and the baby. In a joint consultation, these issues are evaluated, and the family's needs are identified to ensure a healthier future.

At this stage of life, memory and behavior changes associated with aging are extremely common. These cognitive and behavioral changes present particular challenges for diagnosis and treatment. The joint consultation aims to assess the underlying changes that may be interfering with mental abilities. At JCS, we provide all essential laboratory analyses for differential diagnosis, as well as essential imaging methods (state-of-the-art CT scans and MRI). Psychological evaluation assesses the impact of deficits and, if necessary, guides referrals for neuropsychological assessment. This scope also includes identifying needs and developing a psychoeducation plan for caregivers, focusing on techniques and psychological resources to help them cope with the difficulties brought by the illness of their family member or friend.

The emergence of psychotic symptoms is a source of significant concern and distress for the patient and their family. Psychotic symptoms can be caused by various brain disorders and other medical conditions, so a thorough and detailed evaluation is essential. This assessment is conducted through a series of laboratory tests and advanced imaging techniques. In this joint consultation, the most effective treatment is evaluated and suggested. Additionally, the closest individuals who form the "support network" are identified to develop an intervention plan, as well as to provide the necessary information for understanding the illness and different ways to manage it.