OBJECTIVES
6.1

The Clinical Psychologists of the Social Welfare Department (SWD) diagnose and treat psychological or psychiatric problems presented by clients to help the latter to ameliorate their symptoms and restore their functioning. The Clinical Psychologists also provide clinical consultation and training to allied professionals and public education on mental health.

 
SERVICE PROVISION
6.2

As at 31 March 2011, there were 58 Clinical Psychologists in SWD. They are stationed in five Clinical Psychology Units serving the whole territory. They receive referrals mainly from the Integrated Family Service Centres and the Family and Child Protective Services Units. Referrals were also received from the Probation Offices and the Medical Social Services Units. Through the Central Psychological Support Services, Clinical Psychologists also provide clinical case consultation, staff and parent trainings for pre-school centres as well as adult rehabilitation units operated by non-governmental organisations.
   
6.3 Children and adolescents formed the main client group served by the Clinical Psychologists. They were often victims of physical or sexual violence, cases for custody evaluation, or individuals presenting behavioural or emotional problems which were psychological in origin. Adults were seen for a variety of reasons ranging from mood disorders, chronic difficulties in interpersonal relationships, adjustment problems, sexual deviations, and various forms of offences against the law. Some others might be perpetrators or victims in cases of domestic violence. The breakdown of referrals by age for 2009-10 and 2010-11 is shown in Charts 9 and 10 below:

6.4 In 2009-10, the Clinical Psychologists conducted 2 707 psychological or intellectual assessments and 20 662 treatment sessions, serving a total of 3 258 new cases. For 2010-11, 2 557 assessments and 22 542 treatment sessions were conducted, serving a total of 2 922 new cases.