​I've had an interest in how the mind and brain work since I was young. After studying for a joint honours degree in biology and psychology with a special interest in neuroscience, I researched mechanisms of brain development and completed my first doctorate. I found myself becoming ever more interested in the workings of the mind and decided to pursue my growing interest in mental health and in helping people improve their emotional wellbeing. I initially worked in social care, supporting adults with autism and intellectual disabilities, before joining the NHS and gaining considerable experience in various psychological services, ultimately completing a doctorate in clinical psychology.

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As a clinical psychologist, I am trained to doctoral level in the assessment, formulation (broadly, a thorough understanding of how someone's psychological difficulties arose and what keeps them going) and treatment of a wide spectrum of mental health difficulties, as well as in research methods and evaluation, consultation and supervision. We are trained to draw upon a variety of evidence-based therapies and interventions which allow us to integrate and tailor treatment to the needs of the individual. 

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Like all clinical psychologists in the UK, I am required by law to be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), our regulatory body. My registration number is PYL34332 (you can check the register here). I also have both professional indemnity and public liability insurance and hold an enhanced certificate from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). In line with the HCPC and British Psychological Society (BPS) codes of professional and ethical standards, I seek regular supervision to ensure safe and effective practice and ongoing development of my clinical skills.

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The title 'clinical psychologist' is protected by law, meaning it can only be used by someone registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) upon completion of an appropriate course. This is an important distinction to note, as unfortunately, the titles 'psychologist', 'counsellor' and 'therapist' are not legally protected in the UK, meaning anyone can use them, even without formal training or qualifications.

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​I have also completed 4 years of additional training in an evidence-based form of experiential dynamic psychotherapy (EDT). 'Experiential' means that it involves a client's active participation and engagement with their internal experiences in the session, rather than simply verbal discussion. EDT emphasises the mind-body link and draws on neuroscience research and attachment theory to examine the unconscious emotional processes that underlie many psychological as well as physical symptoms. I am accredited in this model and my practice is also informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, another experiential approach, as well as other therapies I have training in including CBT.

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I have extensive experience of working with people with complex mental health difficulties, including 12 years in the NHS in a wide range of settings, from community services to inpatient hospitals, medium secure forensic units and a prison. I generally work with adults who experience a wide variety of psychological, emotional, relational and sometimes physical health problems. I work collaboratively with my clients to develop insights into their difficulties and move towards their goals.

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​Whilst working in an NHS secondary mental health service and at times working jointly with a primary mental health service, I noticed that some people experiencing significant psychological distress tended to either fall into a gap between these services or, due to service limitations, were only permitted a small number of sessions, which for some, may not have substantially improved their symptoms. I therefore decided to move into independent practice to specialise in offering psychological therapy both to people who might have had these experiences, and indeed anyone else seeking support with their psychological difficulties. I chose the name 'animus' for my service as it has a number of different meanings that resonate with my work: mind, consciousness, will, intention, courage and spirit.

 

If you think I might be able to help, I look forward to hearing from you.

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