Neuropsychiatry
Where the Mind Meets the Brain
Neuropsychiatry sits at the intersection of neurology and psychiatry, an integrative medical specialty focused on understanding and treating conditions where brain function and mental health overlap
What Is Neuropsychiatry?
Neuropsychiatry is a subspecialty that bridges neurology and psychiatry, examining the complex relationship between brain function and human behaviour. It addresses psychiatric symptoms that arise from neurological conditions, as well as the behavioural and cognitive manifestations of brain disorders.
Historically, neuropsychiatry emerged from the recognition that mental and neurological disorders share common biological underpinnings. The field has evolved to encompass conditions ranging from traumatic brain injury and dementia to epilepsy, movement disorders, and functional neurological disorders—where structural brain imaging may appear normal, yet brain network function is disrupted.
Patients experience genuine, involuntary symptoms such as weakness or paralysis, tremors, non-epileptic seizures, speech difficulties, or sensory changes. These symptoms are not feigned; they reflect disrupted communication within brain networks and often coexist with other conditions like chronic pain, fatigue, or anxiety. Importantly, FND is treatable, with appropriate diagnosis, education, and multidisciplinary intervention, many patients experience meaningful improvement.
Dr. Raaj's Neuropsychiatric Experience
Our Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Raaj brings specialised neuropsychiatric expertise developed through dedicated clinical training and leadership roles in Ireland's leading hospital groups.
Beaumont Hospital (2017)
During basic specialist training in 2017, Dr. Raaj worked in the neuropsychiatry outpatient clinic at Beaumont Hospital, a national centre for neurological and neurosurgical services.
This rotation provided foundational exposure to complex cases spanning functional neurological disorders, post-stroke psychiatric complications, movement disorders with behavioural manifestations, and neuropsychiatric sequelae of traumatic brain injury.
Mater University Hospital (July 2020 – 2021)
As a Higher Specialist Trainee (Specialist Registrar), Dr. Raaj Dr. Raj ran and managed neuropsychiatry outpatient clinic at the Mater University Hospital, managing a diverse caseload of neuropsychiatric patients across both outpatient and inpatient settings. His clinical responsibilities included:
Assessment and management of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)
Catatonia secondary to medical conditions and medication effects (including benzodiazepine-induced presentations)
Medical Grand Rounds
During Medical Grand Rounds at the Mater Hospital in 2021, Dr. Raaj presented on behalf of the Liaison Psychiatry team on Functional Neurological Disorder, sharing clinical insights on diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and emerging treatment approaches.
He also presented complex cases including catatonia secondary to benzodiazepine use, demonstrating expertise in managing acute neuropsychiatric emergencies.
Integrated Multidisciplinary Approach
At MindBridge Medical, we recognise that neuropsychiatric conditions require integrated, team-based care. Following comprehensive assessment by Dr. Raaj, patients may be referred to our Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Matthew MacGillivray for targeted psychological interventions as part of a coordinated treatment plan.
Dr. Matthew MacGillivray Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Matthew MacGillivray is a Clinical Psychologist with specialised experience in neuropsychology, having previously worked in the Neuropsychology Service at Beaumont Hospital—Ireland's national centre for neurological and neurosurgical care.
During his time at Beaumont, Dr. MacGillivray worked extensively with patients presenting with complex neuropsychiatric conditions.
His expertise lies in understanding the cognitive, emotional, and behavioural dimensions of neuropsychiatric presentations—using a biopsychosocial framework to develop individualised formulations that guide treatment.
This multidisciplinary pathway includes
Joint case formulation – Dr. Raaj and Dr. MacGillivray collaborate to develop a shared understanding of your condition, integrating medical, neurological, and psychological perspectives.
Seamless communication – Regular case discussions ensure your psychiatric management and psychological therapy are aligned and mutually reinforcing.
Evidence-based interventions Dr. MacGillivray provides specialised psychological therapies tailored to neuropsychiatric conditions, including CBT for FND, cognitive rehabilitation strategies, and emotion regulation work.
Coordinated care with your wider team – We maintain close contact with your GP, neurologist, and other specialists to ensure all aspects of your care are integrated.
This collaborative model reflects best practice in neuropsychiatry, where medical management, psychological therapy, and multidisciplinary coordination combine to optimise outcomes for complex conditions.
Services & Fees
Initial Neuropsychiatric Assessment
60-minute comprehensive evaluation including:
Detailed clinical interview and mental state examination
Review of all previous medical reports, neurology correspondence, and psychiatric assessments
Collateral history from family members or treating clinicians (where appropriate)
Review of brain imaging (MRI/CT) and other relevant investigations
Correspondence with your GP, neurologist, or other specialists to clarify clinical picture
Formulation of diagnosis and personalised treatment recommendations
Guidance on further investigations or referrals if needed
Fees: €600
Delivered by Dr Shaeraine Raaj, Consultant Psychiatrist
Follow-Up Review
At Mindbridge Medical, we offer two types of follow-up appointments exclusively for pre-existing clients:
Standard Follow-Up (20 minutes) – €150
A focused review of your symptoms and current medication. During this appointment, we assess whether there is a need to adjust your medication dose or consider a change.Extended Follow-Up (30 minutes) – €200
A comprehensive consultation which includes a detailed review of symptoms, medication effectiveness, and any side effects. This session allows for in-depth discussion and personalized adjustments to your treatment plan.
These follow-up options ensure your ongoing care is closely monitored and tailored to your needs.