Dr John Burns

Clinical Psychologist; HCPC

I am a HCPC-registered Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over two decades of experience supporting individuals across a wide range of clinical settings, including the NHS, private sector, and forensic environments. My work has spanned services for both adults and young people, with a particular focus on complex and enduring mental health difficulties.

My approach to therapy is grounded, collaborative, and person-centred. I aim to offer a warm, respectful space where you feel safe to explore what’s going on in your life and how therapy might support meaningful change. Whether you’re looking for focused support with a specific issue or seeking to understand longstanding patterns, I tailor the therapeutic process to suit your needs and goals.

Areas of Expertise

I have worked with clients experiencing a broad spectrum of psychological challenges, including:

  • Anxiety, panic, phobias, and OCD

  • Trauma, PTSD, and experiences of abuse

  • Depression and low mood

  • Anger, irritability, and emotional dysregulation

  • Grief, loss, and adjustment to life changes

  • Difficulties related to self-esteem, identity, and self-worth

  • Substance misuse and problematic coping behaviours

  • Relationship challenges and interpersonal difficulties

  • Eating-related concerns and body image issues

A key area of interest in my current practice is working with adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I am trained to conduct full diagnostic ADHD assessments and take a holistic approach that considers overlapping mental health concerns, ensuring that any diagnosis is both accurate and clinically meaningful.

Therapeutic Approaches

My therapeutic style is integrative and flexible, drawing on a range of evidence-based models. I work collaboratively with clients to create a shared understanding of their difficulties — often referred to as a psychological formulation — which then informs the direction and structure of therapy.

My core models include:

  • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – For processing trauma and distressing experiences.

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – A structured approach to addressing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours.

  • Schema Therapy – Focused on identifying and changing deep-rooted patterns established in early life.

I also draw on elements of:

  • Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) – Promoting self-kindness and emotional resilience.

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Encouraging values-based living and psychological flexibility.

  • Mindfulness approaches – Enhancing awareness and regulation of emotional states.

Therapy may be short-term and goal-oriented or longer-term and exploratory, depending on your individual needs. We will regularly review progress together to ensure the work remains focused and helpful.

Professional Background & Qualifications

In addition to private practice, I have held senior roles within the NHS, including as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist within prison mental health services. I have extensive experience providing individual therapy, supervising clinicians, and delivering psychological input in complex systems.

  • Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy)

  • Chartered Psychologist, British Psychological Society (BPS)

  • Accredited CBT Therapist, British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)

Psychologist in Reading

Therapy offers the chance to better understand yourself, address challenges, and work toward a more fulfilling and balanced life. If you're considering taking that step, I would be happy to support you in exploring how therapy might help.

At Oak Grove Psychology, we are committed to providing professional, compassionate psychological care tailored to your unique circumstances. Contact us today to schedule an initial appointment or to learn more about our services.

Arrange a Consultation

Contact us today using the form to arrange an initial consultation, call us on 07359 577 510, or email us at drannanorris@oakgrovepsychology.co.uk.