Qualifications and Experience
I am a trainee Counselling Psychologist, meaning that I incorporate psychological theory and research in therapeutic work to help people with a range of difficulties. Prior to doctoral training, I completed a BSc in Psychology and an MRes in Social Psychology.
Previously, I worked as an assistant psychologist at an in-patient unit for eating disorders, as well as a rehabilitation unit for females with complex mental health needs and co-morbid presentations. Prior to this, I worked at a mental health hospital which consisted of acute and psychiatric intensive care, child and adolescent mental health, and private acute and addictions treatment programmes.
Throughout my time at university, I volunteered with Shout UK, which is a crisis text line. Additionally, I volunteered with Headway – the brain injury association, and my local NHS mental health services.
As a direct result of my roles, I have gained experience working with a wide range of presenting issues, including eating disorders, personality disorders, trauma, addictions, relational issues, anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicidal ideation.
Current Work and Interest
I enjoy working with clients on a whole spectrum of issues, although a particular interest of mine is eating disorders. This is a related theme in my doctoral research, which is exploring the lived experiences of low weight targeting in older women.
My Approach to therapy
Having had personal therapy myself, I recognise that taking the step to access therapy can be daunting. Therefore, I offer clients the space and time to be listened to and understood in a safe place.
I work from a pluralistic perspective, which means I am able to draw on multiple models of therapy to develop a collaborative understanding with my client of the issue they would like to work on.
Every client is unique, and my approach reflects this. I place a particular emphasis on building a strong and lasting relationship between myself and the client, as I believe that through connectivity, meaningful growth can occur. Once a rapport is built, we can work collaboratively through those difficult issues and associated thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
In sessions, I believe that it is of great important to not only revisit past events, but also allow time to focus on the present state. Working from this perspective feels more rounded and holistic in terms of working towards the life that we want.
I work with a range of clients from different backgrounds and across different age groups for both short and long-term therapy. Clients have different needs and the number of sessions required will vary from person to person. Following an initial assessment, we will work collaboratively to decide what is the best way forward for you. A session lasts for 50 minutes and takes place in an environment that is calm, confidential and secure for the client. Sessions can be either in-person or online.
Interventions
The core of my Counselling Psychology training is in the following:
- Psychodynamic therapy
- CBT
- Humanistic
Also, I have previously gained experience in delivering the following modalities of therapy:
Membership