Intellectual disability

Referral criteria

The service is available to individuals of all ages with a confirmed or suspected intellectual disability. The service offers assessment of possible intellectual disability, where there is substantive evidence to indicate its likelihood.
For those with a confirmed intellectual disability, the service will consider appropriate referral concerns including mental illness, behaviour of concern, cognitive decline, capacity-related issues, adult protection and child protection.
Referrals will only be accepted where there is a clear role for psychological input identified.
The Intellectual Disability Psychology Service operates an open referral system, requiring explicit informed consent from the individual being referred and/or their legal guardian.
It is recommended, where feasible, referrals are made via the GP, to ensure any potential physical health concerns are addressed before referral. Checking for physical health concerns helps to identify any underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to, or explain, mental health or behavioural issues.

The Intellectual Disability Psychology Service is assessment-led, with a limited treatment caseload for higher-tariff cases.
Interventions typically include psychological formulation with recommendations, systemically-based and direct therapeutic intervention, training, consultation, and supervision of others.
The public facing Intellectual Disability Psychology Service website: https://dghscp.co.uk/intellectual-disability-psychology-service/

For referrals, please use the SCI Gateway... Mountainhall... Clinical Psychology... Psychology and select Intellectual Disabilities

Should any referrer wish to discuss a referral with a member of the service, please contact 01387 244 495 or email: dg.psychology.general@nhs.scot

Last reviewed: 26/02/2025

Next review date: 26/02/2027

Author(s): Fionnuala Edgar.