What is Clinical Psychology? 

Sometimes people ask me, “What exactly is it that you do?” or “What is clinical psychology?”
 
A quote from the British Psychological Society’s webpage summarises the role well:

“Clinical psychology aims to reduce psychological distress and
​to enhance the promotion of psychological well-being”.  
​(www.bps.org.uk)

How can I help you?

​What does this mean for you as a person seeking psychological support for yourself, your child or your family?
 
As a clinical psychologist I provide face-to-face therapy for individuals, families and groups.  The doctorate training is comprehensive, so along with a significant amount of practical therapeutic experience, I have a good knowledge of many theories and models of psychological therapy. 
 
Carrying out a comprehensive and thorough assessment enables me to make sure that your individual needs are clearly understood, allowing for the development of a clear formulation, which will inform an appropriate intervention pathway for you.
 
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, needing some extra help or support around behaviour management with your children, or are having difficulties adjusting to a new medical diagnosis, clinical psychology allows for a safe, non-judgmental space to reflect on those difficulties, whilst also finding ways in which to manage or alleviate the associated distress.

Formulation

Formulation is a core skill for clinical psychologists.  It’s best described as a summary of an individual’s difficulties, grounded in psychological theory and providing ideas about the most appropriate intervention.  Formulation can help to make sense of repetitive and often unhelpful patterns, whilst also contributing to finding new ways of thinking and being. 
 
A good, shared formulation, developed together by you, the client, and myself, allows for interventions that promote resilience and coping whilst taking into account your personal hopes and goals for therapy.
 
An important aspect of therapy is for you to develop a clear understanding of your difficulties and to feel confident in managing them in a safe and helpful way.  
 
Please do take a look at the ‘Therapy’ tab for further information on my approach and therapy sessions.