Audio-vestibular Medicine - paediatric clinical psychology

We are a specialist clinical psychological team based within the paediatric audio-vestibular Medical (AVM) Services. Our role is to support children and young people – as well as their families – who are living with a range of audio-vestibular conditions. We also accept referrals for tinnitus and specific sound sensitivity issues from professionals outside the hospital.

Who we support

We work with children and young people experiencing a wide range of AVM-related conditions, including:

• Hearing loss
• Balance disorders
• Tinnitus (perception of sound without an external source)
• Hyperacusis (increased sensitivity to everyday loud sounds)
• Misophonia (strong emotional responses to specific sounds)

Referrals are accepted both from within the hospital (internal referrals) and we also accept referrals from community-based professionals or services (external referrals) for tinnitus, hyperacusis, and misophonia.

What we offer

Our team provides:

• Psychological assessments to explore how AVM-related conditions are impacting a child or young person’s wellbeing, daily functioning, and family life
• Time-limited therapeutic input, tailored to each individual’s needs
• Support focused on developing coping and management strategies
• Collaborative work with families, schools, and medical teams where appropriate

Our approach

We offer short- to medium-term psychological support, using an evidence-based approach. Our work primarily draws on:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Systemic approaches (working with families and support networks)
• Third-wave CBT methods, including elements of:
  • • Mindfulness
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Others where appropriate

We aim to work flexibly and holistically, adapting our approach based on the unique needs and presentation of each young person.