Objective: This service evaluation aimed to assess the need for integrated psychological support within a Parkinson’s disease (PD) service by examining referral rates, presenting psychological difficulties, and the interventions delivered.
Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition associated with both motor and non-motor symptoms. Psychological difficulties are common, with around half of individuals experiencing anxiety and/or depression during the course of the condition. These difficulties may arise from neurobiological and psychosocial factors and can exacerbate motor symptoms, increase caregiver burden, and negatively affect quality of life and engagement with treatment.
Method: Routinely collected service data were reviewed over a 12-month period. Descriptive analyses examined the number of referrals to an embedded psychology service, presenting psychological needs, and interventions provided.
Results: Ninety-six referrals were received over the 12-month period (mean = 8 per month), all from consultants or specialist nurses within the PD service. In response to referral demand and complexity of needs, a stepped-care model was implemented. Eighteen individuals participated in an evidence-based psychological group following screening by the psychology service. The remaining 78 referrals received individual assessment, including evidence-based therapy and/or neurocognitive assessment. Among these referrals, the most common presenting difficulty was anxiety (29%). Other referral reasons included adjustment difficulties related to diagnosis or disease progression (22%), carer-related concerns (19%), cognitive difficulties (17%), and depression (13%).
Conclusion: Findings demonstrate a clear demand for psychological input within a PD service. The range and frequency of referrals highlight substantial psychological and neurocognitive needs among people with PD. Embedding psychology within the multidisciplinary team and adopting a stepped-care model enables preventative, skills-based, and specialist interventions, supporting more holistic care for patients and carers.
To cite this abstract in AMA style:
R. Lewis-Morton, O. Batterbee, T. Edwards, B. Mohamed, J. Adenwalla. Integrating Psychology into a Parkinson’s Disease Service – Evaluating Need [abstract]. Mov Disord. 2026; 41 (suppl 1). https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/integrating-psychology-into-a-parkinsons-disease-service-evaluating-need/. Accessed October 1, 2026.« Back to 2026 International Congress
MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/integrating-psychology-into-a-parkinsons-disease-service-evaluating-need/