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*Please note: I am sorry but I am not currently taking new treatment referrals or running a wait-list. I am accepting ADHD assessment referralsI am a Clinical Psychologist with specialist knowledge and training in the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders. I use up-to-date treatment approaches which are tailored to my client’s individual needs.It is of utmost importance to me that my clients feel understood, respected, validated and supported during therapy. It can be a brave and difficult decision to approach a therapist and I very much respect this. During your time in therapy, I seek to provide you with skills and empowerment to become your own ‘therapist’.
Colette Woolcock
Christchurch Clinical Psychologist.
ADHD Assessments
What is the ADHD assessment process?
I work with adults aged 18 and above. I provide assessments for clients who live in the Canterbury Te Whatu Ora region.
Sometimes, a person’s mental health presentation can be complex. Occasionally, this can make assessment of ADHD difficult. In these cases, a second opinion regarding diagnosis from a psychiatrist may be recommended.
Before we undertake an ADHD assessment, I ask that clients have their family doctor rule out any medical explanations for symptoms and to confirm that stimulant medication is not contraindicated (if this is an option you are wanting to explore).
Once this is completed
Firstly, we will schedule a 30-minute phone call so I can screen for ADHD symptoms and any other psychological issues.
If we decide that ADHD symptoms may be present, we will then schedule a two-hour clinical interview to assess ADHD symptoms, any other psychological issues you may be experiencing, and important life events you may have experienced.
I will send you some questionnaires to complete online. These will explore ADHD symptoms but also screen for other psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
I will need to make contact with someone who knew you under the age of 12. This could be a parent, an older sibling, or an older family member. It is extremely useful for me to have access to school reports. To diagnose ADHD, symptoms need to have been present prior to the age of 12.
We will then schedule a one-hour feedback appointment to discuss the report.
What happens after this?
With your permission, I will make contact with your GP. They will complete some physical examinations such as blood tests. They can then send our assessment, along with medical findings to a Psychiatrist at Te Whatu Ora (CDHB) to consider prescribing stimulant medication. Stimulant medications are often the most useful medical treatment of ADHD. These cannot be prescribed by your GP, they need special authority by a psychiatrist. The psychiatrist will review our report to decide if they will provide the special authority for stimulant medication. You will usually not have to be seen by the psychiatrist, as our report and your GP findings will usually be adequate for them to make a decision.
What is the cost?
I charge an up-front base fee of $1750 (gst inclusive). Additional fees may occur if there is a more complex psychological history or additional contacts are needed for your assessment. If at any time, I decide that a diagnosis of ADHD is unlikely, you will be refunded your unused fee at my hourly rate of $220.
About Me
I completed my Postgraduate Training in Clinical Psychology in 2005 and worked for eight years at the Anxiety Disorders Service (Canterbury District Health Board, CDHB). This work involved assessing and providing specialist up-to-date therapy for anxiety disorders. While working at the Anxiety Disorders Service, I developed a group treatment protocol for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I have a passion for anxiety disorders, I am aware of the distress they can cause and I seek to help my clients reduce their own suffering.Following my eight years at the Anxiety Disorders Service, I worked at The Psychiatric Consultation Service at the CDHB. This provided me with the opportunity to work with patients with a medical condition which was impacting on their mental health, or mental health problems were impacting on managing a medical condition. I then decided to gain specific skills in diabetes management and worked for 18 months at The Diabetes Centre at the CDHB. These positions in medical settings allowed me to use my skills in anxiety and mood management in a broader context and to develop a specialist interest in the interface between psychological and physical wellness.In conjunction with my work at the CDHB, I started private practice in 2009 where I continue to treat anxiety disorders and other presenting problems.My Postgraduate training in Clinical Psychology at the University of Canterbury focused on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). Since graduating, I have gained specific skills in Metacognitive Therapy. Therapies are constantly evolving and I seek to use the most up-to-date versions of each therapy.I work with adults from age 16 upwards.
Qualifications
Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology (University of Canterbury)
Master of Science- Psychology (Distinction) (University of Otago)
Postgraduate Diploma- Psychology (Distinction) (University of Otago)
Bachelor of Arts- Psychology (University of Otago)
Professional Memberships
I am registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board in the Clinical Scope of Practice
http://www.psychologistsboard.org.nzI am a full member of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists (NZCCP)
http://www.nzccp.co.nz
Colette Woolcock
Christchurch Clinical Psychologist.
Services
Specialising In
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Panic Disorder (with and without agoraphobia)
Panic attacks
ADHD Assessments (Click here to learn more)
Social Anxiety
Specific Phobias
Health Anxiety
Excessive Worry (Generalised Anxiety)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Stress
Depression
Self esteem
Depersonalisation Disorder
Trichotillomania
Life changes
Professional supervision
Psychological distress as a result of a medical condition e.g. diabetes, cancer, cardiac problems etc.
Fees
Initial assessment $300 (including GST)
Treatment appointments $220 (including GST) per 50 minute session
You may be eligible for a WINZ allowance. Please contact WINZ on:
https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/disability-allowance.html
Referrals
I take referrals from a variety of sources such as gps, other health professionals and self- referrals. Before I start therapy with a new client, we meet to complete an assessment of your presenting problem(s) and I also gather information about other aspects of your life which might be affecting you. This information helps us to work together to make up a clear picture of you needs and what you want to work on. The duration of treatment will depend on the individual and their needs.
Colette Woolcock
Christchurch Clinical Psychologist.
Contact
Email: colettewoolcock@gmail.comLocation: Burnside, Christchurch
Colette Woolcock
Christchurch Clinical Psychologist.
