A clinical psychologist is someone who has an undergraduate degree in Psychology and then further postgraduate training in Clinical Psychology.  This postgraduate training is a Doctorate and it involves theoretical and practical understanding of how mental health difficulties present across the lifespan, what psychological theories influence this (e.g attachment theory, learning theory, cognitive theory, behavioural theory to name but a few) and how this links to clinical practice.

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A clinical psychologist mainly uses 'talking therapies' to help you understand how your past is affecting your present, what is keeping your difficulties going and what strengths and resources you have. Therapy is very much a two way process and something that is worked on together with shared therapy goals. Therapy is a place where it is important to feel safe, contained and that you are able to put trust in your therapist in order to get the most from therapy.

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It is also important to consider if you feel ready to enter into therapy as motivation can be a significant factor in impacting change.  If you wish to explore whether therapy is for you, you are welcome to have an initial chat on the phone or send me an email. You would be welcome to come along for an initial appointment to see if therapy is then something you would like to progress with.

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Please note that clinical psychologists are not medically trained and do not prescribe medication. If you are seeking medication you would be advised to approach your GP or a psychiatrist. This blog here is helpful to explain what different types of 'talking therapists' do and may help you decide whether it's a clinical psychologist that you may wish to see.

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