Duty of Care Psychological Services

Duty of care psychological services are important to protect the welfare of participants and the ethical integrity of your production. Recent events have shown the tragic consequences that occur when a participant has not been properly assessed, screened or supported for a media production, resulting in harm, cancellation of programmes and even death. We are keen to work with production companies and broadcasters to improve the psychological safety of productions while producing high quality and entertaining content.

We recommend a face to face assessment with candidates prior to agreeing participation. As part of this assessment we assess history and current mental state, and capacity to understand the possible impact and consequences of taking part. This includes a formulation of the candidate's emotional style and coping strategies and recommendations for support. We also assess potential risks to psychological well-being. Where relevant we administer evidence-based psychometric measures.

We are able to offer services to prepare candidates for participation. This might include identifying possible triggers and areas of vulnerability (for example, specific relationship dynamics) and working on coping skills and strategies.  It might also include supporting the candidate to have conversations with others who may be impacted by their participation in the show.

Following participation in a production it can be difficult to "get back to normal", especially if there has been significant media coverage and public recognition. We can support participants to adjust to their new circumstances, de-brief clients on their experiences and support well-being. 

The term "psychologist" or "TV Psychologist" is not regulated, effectively meaning that anyone can describe their work with this term. Clinical Psychologists have undegone at least six years of training with ongoing supervised practise and professional development. To use the title "Clinical Psychologist" one must be registered by the Health and Care Professions Council and adhere to strict guidelines on practise and ethics.

For more on why Clinical Psychologists are uniquely qualified for Duty of Care work see:  https://acpuk.org.uk/reality_television/