Our Expertise
Our Memory Clinic team is comprised of Consultant Psychiatrists and Clinical Psychologists with expertise in the field of memory, cognition, dementia, and neuropsychology.
A memory clinic consultation may be helpful to consider if you may have noticed a change in yourself or a loved one, in one or more of the following areas:
- Altered states of consciousness
- Attention
- Cognitive difficulties following a head injury (e.g. sports injuries)
- If you think yourself or a loved one may have dementia
- Language abilities
- Memory
- Problem solving skills
- Visuospatial abilities
If you think you or a loved one may have dementia it can be helpful to receive a diagnosis as early as possible as this allows you and your family to have the best chance to prepare for the future and provides access to any treatments which could be helpful.
With early diagnosis and treatment and support from health care professionals, people with dementia can live lives which are fulfilling, active and in line with their values.
Alternatively, if you or a loved one is concerned that dementia may be underlying any difficulties, it can be helpful and re-assuring to have an assessment which may conclude that this is not the underlying cause.
Difficulties with cognition, including memory, are not always due to dementia and can be due to mental health difficulties (e.g. depression, anxiety, stress), side effects of medication, head injuries, and certain physical health problems, including pain and delirium.
At the practice we have expertise in working with high performance athletes. A consultation at our Memory Clinic can be utilised to assess for potential cognitive impairment, as a result of sports related head injuries.
The Assessment Process
Memory Clinic Consultation
Upon reviewing your referral, we can offer a 90-minute Consultation with our Consultant Psychiatrist. This appointment will include taking a detailed history of your difficulties, gathering collateral information from someone who knows you well and completing some tasks in session to formally assess cognition. Our Consultant will then gather all of this information together and consider what the next best steps are for you.
Based on the Memory Clinic consultation with our Consultant Psychiatrist we may at this stage be able to provide a diagnosis if appropriate, and suggest potential medical and/or psychological treatment options. You will also be provided with a report summarising the assessment and future recommendations.
Alternatively, the Memory Clinic consultation may conclude that further in-depth neuropsychological testing and/or scanning is required to establish the potential underlying cause of cognitive impairment. If this is the most helpful next step you will then meet with one of our Clinical Psychologists to carry out a detailed Neuropsychological Assessment and we can arrange for fast access to any brain scans that may be required.
Comprehensive Memory Clinic Assessment
This includes a 90-minute consultation with our Consultant Psychiatrist, neuropsychological assessment with our Clinical Psychologist and brain scanning if appropriate. A feedback appointment and detailed report are also included.
A Neuropsychological Assessment will involve an initial clinical interview where further assessment information will be gathered from you and someone who knows you well. You will then meet with the Clinical Psychologist for further appointments to undertake standardised neuropsychological assessments, this can take approximately 3-4 hours. Undertaking a neuropsychological assessment will involve answering a range of questions, completing some written assessments and practical tasks.
Following the comprehensive assessment our team will bring together all of the information gathered, analyse and interpret this and provide a written report which outlines the assessment process, findings and any diagnosis which is suitable, as well as future recommendations for psychological and psychiatric treatment. You will have a feedback appointment to discuss the outcome of the assessment and potential future treatment options.
Our Fees
£560
90-minute Memory Clinic Consultation
£2500
Comprehensive Memory Clinic Assessment
(Memory Clinic Consultation, Neuropsychological Assessment & CT/MRI brain scan)
Happy Friday, everyone! 🌟 This #fridaycheckin, we’re focusing on checking in with our sensory needs.
Did you know we have 5 main senses:
👁️ Sight
👃 Smell
👅 Taste
👋 Touch
👂Hearing
Plus two additional senses:
🧍♂️ Proprioception (body awareness)
⚖️ Vestibular (balance and movement)
Sensory needs can vary, we can be:
* Hypersensitive: Easily overwhelmed for example by bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells
* Hyposensitive: May seek extra stimulation for example from strong flavours or textures
Tuning into and meeting our sensory needs helps to soothe the nervous system, promotes wellbeing and reduces distress 🌈
#SensoryNeeds #SensoryProcessing #TheEdinburghPractice
💛 Struggling with fertility can be emotionally overwhelming and can raise a number of distressing thoughts and emotions. You don’t have to face it alone, at The Edinburgh Practice, we’re now offering fertility counselling to support anyone navigating the challenges of infertility. Whether you’re an individual, part of a couple, or a family member providing support, we’re here to help.
🌸 Fertility counselling covers a wide range of issues including; managing the emotional toll, the impact on relationships, and making informed choices about your next steps. From coping with unexplained infertility to exploring options like IVF, donors, or egg freezing, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
💻 To learn more about TEP’s Fertility Counselling Service or to submit a referral, visit our website (link in bio)
#FertilityCounselling #Infertility #FertilitySupport #TheEdinburghPractice
Happy Monday! We’re back with another ‘M’ word - Memory. Our memory thrives when our brain is healthy! Regardless of age, we must keep our brains active through healthy habits and mental stimulation - this is the key to maintaining a sharp memory as we age!
🧠 We now know much more about what affects our brain health compared to a decade ago. For example, it is now widely known that dementia-related diseases often begin in midlife. The development of these conditions is influenced by many factors, some beyond our control, like genetics and family history, but many others, such as lifestyle, are within our power to change. Changes include:
🏃♂️🚴♀️ Taking regular exercise that gets our heart pumping - aim for at least 2-3 hours of moderate intensity exercise every week (this can be brisk walking, gardening, riding a bike, or dancing)
🥗🍎 Eat a balanced, Mediterranean-style diet - rich in olive oil and including lots of vegetables, fruit, beans, fish and whole grains. Not too much meat or sugary foods.
👫🎸 Enjoy time with other people and learn new skills throughout life - be creative, learn a language or musical instrument. Try out a new activity in a group or with a friend - this can keep us motivated while also getting a social benefit.
🚬🍷 Don’t smoke and don’t drink too much alcohol - stopping smoking even in later life can reduce the risk of developing dementia.
😴💤Manage stress, look after mental health and get plenty of sleep - aim for 7-9 hours of good quality sleep every night. Not getting enough sleep can affect our memory and ability to think in the short and long term.
@brainhealthscot have amazing resources on their website (https://www.brainhealth.scot) including ‘My Brain Health Quiz’ to build a personal brain health plan!
#BrainHealth #Memory #KeepingSharp #Dementia #TheEdinburghPractice
Happy Friday everyone! We’re back with #fridaycheckin!
It’s our first full week back and TEP is the busiest it’s ever been! Luckily we managed to catch a few members of Team TEP for a quick check in. Paula, Rachael and Zara shared how they’re feeling about 2025 and the habits they’re working on this year. 🌟 From building healthier routines to prioritizing self-care, we’re all about making this year one of growth and balance.
What’s one habit or goal you’re excited to work on in 2025? Let us know in the comments! 💬
#MentalHealthMatters #FreshStart #NewYearGoals #TheEdinburghPractice
✨ Understanding the Role of a Health Visitor ✨
Join us for an insightful webinar with Lisa Fraser, an experienced Health Visitor at The Edinburgh Practice, as she delves into the invaluable role of Health Visitors and the guidance and support that she can offer to families. Whether you’re a new parent, expecting a baby or curious about the support Health Visitors can provide, including how Lisa can support you to navigate early parenthood then this webinar is for you!
In this session, Lisa will cover:
🌟 The role of a Health Visitor and the vital support they provide to parents and babies
🌟 Specialist Health Services available at The Edinburgh Practice
🌟Why you might consider a private Health Visitor to complement NHS services
This is a fantastic opportunity to ask questions, learn about a range of support options available, and gain a deeper understanding of how a Health Visitor can make a positive difference to you and your family.
Please register on our website, link in bio!
Happy New Year and welcome back to our Monday ‘M’ series! This week, ‘M’ is for Mind-Body connection. Our mind and body are inextricably connected and have a direct impact on each other. When we care for one, we nourish the other!
Stress can manifest physically, while movement and physical care can ease mental tension. Practices like mindfulness, exercise, proper nutrition, and quality sleep nurture this connection, creating a foundation for resilience and balance.
The start of a new year is the perfect time to prioritize the powerful connection between our mind and body ✨
#NewYearWellbeing #MindBodyConnection #SelfCare #TheEdinburghPractice
A Very Merry Christmas from Team TEP! 🎄
While this season is filled with joy for many, we recognise it can also be a difficult time for some. Whether you’re celebrating or navigating challenges, remember to prioritise your wellbeing and be kind to yourself 💛
We wish you all moments of peace, joy and healing this holiday season 🌟
#theedinburghpractice #mentalhealth #christmas
Welcome back to another #fridaycheckin! Here’s a look back at TEP’s 2024 - a year full of growth, challenges, and incredible moments! 🎥
As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect 💭 After the Christmas festivities, take a moment to ask yourself: What went well this year? What did I enjoy? What do I want to work on for the year ahead?
Self-reflection is a powerful tool for growth, and there’s no better time than now to check in with yourself. Let’s carry those insights into a strong start for 2025 💪
#fridaycheckin #yearinreview #2024recap
🌟 Exciting news! We are thrilled to welcome Fiona Cook to The Edinburgh Practice team starting January 2025!
🤰 Fiona is a highly experienced Fertility and Relationship Counsellor with over 22 years of clinical practice. With a unique integrative approach rooted in psychodynamic and systemic theories, mindfulness, and compassion-focused therapy, Fiona supports individuals and couples navigating the complexities of fertility and relationships. She brings a wealth of expertise, including her work with the NHS, donor conception, and solo parenthood.
🙏 Her dedication to creating a compassionate, tailored space for clients is truly inspiring, and we can’t wait for her to bring her warmth and expertise to our practice.
💛 Join us in giving Fiona a warm welcome!
#FertilityCounsellor #RelationshipCounselling #TheEdinburghPractice #WelcomeToTheTeam
This Monday, ‘M’ is for Mental Clarity!
Mental clarity is essential for navigating life with focus, confidence and calm. It helps us make better decisions, manage stress and maintain emotional balance.
Mental clarity can feel like a challenge during menopause, with hormonal shifts often leading to brain fog, forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating. By prioritising self-care, managing stress, staying active and seeking support, including medical advice where appropriate, you can navigate this challenge with strength.
A clear mind is the foundation of a fulfilled and balanced life.
#theedinburghpractice #mentalhealth #mentalclarity
We’re back with another #fridaycheckin - and this week, it’s a Christmas Edition! 🎄✨
With just 12 days to go until Christmas, we wanted to share how we’ve sprinkled some festive cheer around The Edinburgh Practice. From twinkling lights to cozy decorations, our space is feeling extra warm and welcoming this season!
We hope our festive touches bring a smile to your face and a little extra joy to your day. Wishing you all a peaceful and cheerful lead-up to the holidays! ⭐
#TheEdinburghPractice #FestiveSeason #Christmas #MentalHealth
December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month ❄️
As the season shifts, it’s not uncommon for the darker days to affect our mood and energy. If you’re feeling off or struggling this winter, remember it’s okay to take things slow and prioritise your mental health.
Seasonal depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects one in twenty people in the UK, with men being more likely to be diagnosed with SAD than women. The exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, but it’s often linked to reduced exposure to sunlight during the shorter autumn and winter days.
🧠The main theory is that a lack of sunlight might stop a part of the brain called the hypothalamus working properly, which may affect the:
😴The production of the sleepy hormone, Melatonin.
😊The production of the happy hormone, Serotonin
🕑Our body’s internal clock called our circadian rhythm.
Seasonal changes can be tough, but you don’t have to face them alone. Reach out, take care of yourself and know that it’s okay to not feel okay sometimes.
#seasonaldepression #MentalHealthAwareness #theedinburghpractice
Happy Monday! This Monday, ‘M’ is for Mental Flourishing ✨
Mental flourishing isn’t the absence of mental illness—it’s a state of thriving, feeling fulfilled, and growing despite life’s challenges. While mental illness may involve difficulties that affect daily functioning, it doesn’t mean that flourishing is out of reach. It’s possible to live with a mental health condition while still experiencing moments of growth and well-being. It’s about balance and working toward a better, more resilient mindset every day.
To find out more, check out Keyes and Westerhof’s (2009) academic paper called ‘Mental Illness and Mental Health: The Two Continua Model across the Lifespan”.
#MentalFlourishing #mentalhealth #theedinburghpractice
Welcome back to another #fridaycheckin! This Friday, Dr Alex checks in with our boundaries over the Christmas Period 🎄
🌟Setting and communicating boundaries with your friends and families over the festive period can help reduce stress and ensure you spend your time in a way that doesn’t negatively impact your wellbeing.
Dr Alex reminds us that:
1. It’s okay not to go home for the holidays.
2. It’s okay to need a break if you’re hosting.
3. It’s okay to need alone time if you’re visiting.
4. It’s okay to disengage from controversial conversations.
We encourage you to practice setting boundaries this Christmas period to give yourself the gift of feeling joyful, peaceful and empowered 🎁
#boundaries #fridaycheckin #theedinburghpractice #mentalhealth
This week is National Grief Awareness Week.
🔦 We are supporting @thegoodgrieftrust campaign, with this year’s theme being ‘Shine a Light’.
🫶 It’s important to normalise grief and make those around us aware that it’s often not something that will ever completely go away. It’s often about finding ways of coping with the grief. This week is about encouraging empathy, compassion, and support for those who are grieving, emphasising that grief if universal and often a challenging part of the human experience.
🎄 Grief can feel especially heavy during the festive season, a time often filled with memories of those we’ve lost. Let’s acknowledge the pain that can come with Christmas and offer compassion to ourselves and others. It’s okay to miss them, to feel it all, and to take the season at your own pace and do it in your own way. You may want to think of meaningful ways to remember the person, or people, you have lost this festive season.
To participate in National Grief Awareness Week, we can:
💛 Support a grieving friend
💛 Practice self-care if you are grieving
💛 Educate others - The Good Grief Trust’s website have a lot of short video clips offering support as well as sharing stories of those that have lost a loved one (https://www.thegoodgrieftrust.org). Another resource is The Good Grief Project, which offer a range of different workshops for bereaved parents and siblings (https://thegoodgriefproject.co.uk)
#ShineALight #GriefAwareness #YouAreNotAlone #TheEdinburghPractice
