Dr Doug McConachie (Doctorate in Clinical Psychology)
Lecturer in Clinical Psychology
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology
- School of Health in Social Science
Contact details
- Email: doug.mcconachie@ed.ac.uk
Address
- Street
-
Department of Clinical and Health Psychology
School of Health in Social Science
University of Edinburgh
Doorway 6, Old Medical School
Teviot Place - City
- Edinburgh
- Post code
- EH8 9AG
Availability
Monday to Wednesday
Background
After giving up on my dreams of becoming a professional footballer or rockstar, I pursued a degree in Psychology at Aberdeen University. My interest in studying the brain and behaviour grew during my studies. I later became involved in researching medically unexplained symptoms and traumatic brain injury. I also worked as a Nursing Assistant with individuals with Intellectual Disabilities in inpatient settings. Witnessing how neurodevelopment can impact behaviour inspired me to pursue a career in Clinical Psychology. I saw how applying psychological understanding can significantly improve someone's quality of life.
I researched the impact of moving individuals with Intellectual Disabilities from hospital institutions to community settings. This led to my involvement in a WHO-funded project developing measures for Quality of Life, care, and attitudes towards Intellectual Disability. I completed my Clinical Psychology training at the University of Edinburgh, specialising in Intellectual Disabilities. I undertook specialist placements in Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Child and Adolescent Intellectual Disability, and specialist Neurodevelopmental services. Since qualifying, I have worked in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services and Adult services both in the community and inpatient settings. My therapeutic work has focused on Neurodivergent individuals using neuroaffirmative approaches and finding ways to support the wider systems around the individual using psychological theory. I recently joined the University of Edinburgh and hope to share my enthusiasm through teaching and research.
I am passionate about addressing health and mental health inequalities facing people with Learning disabilities. I like to work collaboratively and improve our understanding of mental health difficulties therapeutically and in my research, teaching and training.
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) Psychology
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Responsibilities & affiliations
- Module co-ordinator of Intellectual Disability in the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology training
- Co-convenor of the Advisory Panel of Experts by Experience for the Doctorate Course.
Postgraduate teaching
I primarily provide Teaching for the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology; however, I offer several other courses specific sessions across the Department of Clinical Psychology in a range of topics, including:
Psychological assessment and Formulation
Psychological Interventions in Intellectual disabilities and Neurodivergent approaches
Research summary
I am interested in the intersection between neurodiversity and mental health. My research focuses on improving the quality of life and care for individuals with intellectual disabilities and developing interventions for behaviours that challenge and parenting neurodivergent children. I also study mindfulness-based interventions and psychoeducation to support carers, support staff, and professionals, focusing on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Trauma-Informed Practice. Please reach out to me to discuss ideas.