Areas of Expertise

Since 2012, I’ve gained extensive experience supporting adults with a wide range of psychological and emotional difficulties, including:

• Personality disorders and complex emotional needs

• Depression and low mood

• Anxiety, panic, and stress

• Trauma and PTSD

• Emotional regulation and self-criticism

• Eating disorders and body image concerns

• Relationship and interpersonal difficulties

I have a particular interest in working with individuals who experience intense emotions, persistent feelings of emptiness or shame, or difficulties maintaining stable relationships. I am also experienced in helping people manage the effects of trauma and understand the patterns that keep them feeling stuck or disconnected from themselves and others.

My work is grounded in compassion and curiosity, helping people to understand not only what they feel but why, and supporting them in developing new ways of responding that foster healing and growth.

Therapeutic Approaches

My approach to therapy is integrative and evidence-based, meaning I draw on a range of therapeutic models to best meet each person’s needs. These include:

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) – Supporting clients in developing emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills.

• Mentalisation-Based Therapy (MBT) – Helping individuals make sense of their thoughts, feelings, and relationships.

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

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Exploring the links between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.

• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) – Reducing self-criticism and cultivating self-kindness.

My therapeutic style is collaborative, transparent, and paced according to each client’s readiness. I aim to balance validation and understanding with gentle challenge, helping individuals to both accept themselves and work toward meaningful change.

Professional Background & Qualifications

My early career was spent on inpatient wards, where I supported individuals with complex and acute mental health needs. This experience shaped my belief that effective therapy requires presence, empathy, and a genuine understanding of the human experience beyond theory.

Over time, I developed a particular interest in working with individuals experiencing emotional dysregulation and recurrent crises, which led me to specialise in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). Since completing my Postgraduate Diploma in DBT (Distinction) at Bangor University, I have expanded my clinical expertise to include working with eating disorders and complex trauma, completing additional specialist training in DBT for Complex PTSD.

My work now combines structured, evidence-based approaches with a deep respect for the uniqueness of each person’s story. Alongside my therapeutic practice, I also provide supervision and consultation to other mental health professionals.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate Diploma in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (Distinction) – Bangor University

• Doctorate in Counselling Psychology – London Metropolitan University

• BSc (Hons) Psychology – Buckinghamshire New University

Psychologist Reading

Here at Oak Grove Psychology, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, professional, and evidence-based psychological support tailored to your individual needs. If you are experiencing emotional distress, difficulties managing intense feelings, or challenges in your relationships, don’t hesitate to contact us today.