Please contact me if you can’t find an answer to your question.
The symptoms and treatments of physical health conditions all vary, but they can have a similar impact on our psychological and social wellbeing. It makes sense to feel shocked and scared about a diagnosis, injury or pain, frustrated by so many extra things to think about, and angry that life feels harder than others have it. Difficult thoughts and emotions can make all the stuff that sucks about an illness feel even tougher. We might struggle to take part in the things we enjoy, or feel unable to make plans for the future. These additional challenges can make physical health challenges feel even harder to live with.
This is where a psychologist can help; to provide a confidential and safe space to explore concerns such as, 'why me, why now and why isn't it getting better?', and find a way to make progress towards your goals.
Trained Clinical Psychologists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), meaning you can check that they are registered. Clinical Psychologists are specialists in mental health, who have trained across the lifespan in a number of talking therapies. Psychiatrists are medically trained and prescribe medications to help with anxiety, depression and other mental health problems. They are regulated by the General Medical Council. Counsellors and Psychotherapists typically offer lower intensity support. They are not always regulated, meaning it is important to ask what specific training they have completed.
This YouTube clip explains it nicely, with the difference being that UK psychologists need to register with the HCPC.
I am trained to work across the lifespan, and happy to be approached by anyone from 0-100 who feels I offer the support they are looking for.
I have a special interest in supporting children, adolescents and young adults up to the age of 25, as this is a key developmental stage when the brain is still under construction. This 'neuroplasticity' means it is both vulnerable to the impact of adverse events, but also primed to respond well to therapy.
I have a lovely therapy space in Exeter, with easy access off Jct 29 of the M5. It has a reception area with tea and coffee facilities for anyone who is waiting while a session takes place, and free parking .