24 January 2007

Psychology clinic offers services to community

The University of Canberra Psychology clinic is offering a range of clinical services to the Canberra and regional community. Now in its fifth year of operation the clinic provides services by registered psychologists undertaking postgraduate training in clinical psychology at the University. All interns are supervised by highly trained and experienced psychologists, who also provide a clinical consultancy service.

Group programs on offer this year are the 'Cool Kids' program run by child mental health specialist Vanessa Hamilton.   The program is aimed at helping children cope with the stress of social situations, such as beginning a new school year.

"The Cool Kids program is for families where children are at risk of developing or have developed an anxiety disorder that interferes with their normal life. Kids who are having trouble making friends or have trouble talking in class are particularly good candidates," Ms Hamilton said.

Dr Vivienne Lewis who specialises in body image, eating and weight related issues will offer a program 'Positive Bodies: Lovin' the Skin You're In' that is aimed at assisting people feel better about themselves and their bodies. This is the second year this program is running at the University of Canberra.

Dr Lewis said "people don't have to be suffering from an eating disorder or clinical body image disturbance to attend. She believes having a positive body image is important because what we think about our bodies influences how we feel about ourselves in general and affects our day to day lives". Dr Lewis also offers assistance on individual basis.

Dr Steve Dawson will provide consultancy in learning disorders such as ADHD, dyslexia, and autism spectrum disorders.

The clinic provides psychological services to children, adolescents and adults for a wide range of psychological problems including anxiety, depression, relationship and parenting issues as well as educational, learning and behavioural difficulties.

Sessions and services will begin in March and appointments can be made by calling (02) 6201 2883. The service does not include telephone counselling.

UC Communications

Gaye Morrison
T: 02 6201 5855
M: 0409 470 755

Kaddie Pass
T: 02 6201 2681

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Last Updated on August 1, 2005