MEMBERSHIPS

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy BACP
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies BABCP
Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing EMDR U.K. and Europe
National Autistic Association

I am a qualified Psychological Therapist based near Minehead, Somerset, offering evidence-based therapy in a confidential and supportive environment. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Diplomas in both Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

With over fifteen years of experience in the NHS within Enduring Mental Health and Psychological Services, and more than five years running my own private practice, I bring a depth of clinical knowledge and compassion to my work. I am an Accredited Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and have maintained accreditation for over ten years.

COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach proven to be effective for a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, low self-esteem and confidence issues, anger, sexual problems, phobias, and many others.

CBT focuses on understanding the connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It helps people recognise unhelpful thinking patterns and develop new, more balanced ways of interpreting and responding to life’s challenges. Therapy sessions may include practical exercises, such as role-playing or guided activities to practise between sessions, supporting lasting change beyond the therapy room.

EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITISATION AND REPROCESSING (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured and evidence-based therapy originally developed for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but now widely used to help with a range of distressing experiences, including trauma, abuse, anxiety, and other emotionally overwhelming events.

EMDR makes use of the mind’s natural healing processes. During therapy, you may be guided to follow specific eye movements—similar to those experienced during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep—by following the therapist’s hand or a moving light. This process helps the brain to reprocess difficult memories, reducing their emotional impact. Clients often notice significant improvements, such as fewer flashbacks, reduced distress, and a greater sense of calm and control in daily life.

ASSESSMENT AND DIAGNOSIS OF ADOLESCENT AND ADULT AUTISM

I offer comprehensive assessments for the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) in adolescents and adults, using tools recognised by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), and accepted across healthcare and workplace settings.

Assessments are conducted using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised (ADI-R), both regarded as the gold standard in autism diagnosis.

I am trained to clinical reliability in the administration and coding of both the ADOS-2 and the ADI-R. These diagnostic tools have been rigorously developed, standardised, and validated to ensure accuracy and consistency. The combined use of these assessments allows for a comprehensive and balanced evaluation, considering both observed behaviours and developmental history.