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Areas of expertise
ADHD
I specialise in ADHD and conduct disorder and I have spent many years researching this area. I am passionate about understanding how our emotions influence the way we, as individuals, behave. My PhD research was focused on the differences in behavioural problems between males and females which is an often overlooked aspect of treatment.
Every individual and situation is unique when it comes to ADHD and neurodiversity. Your symptoms and experiences will not be the same as others, which is why I take a personalised approach to treatment. I understand that each stage of the journey can be extremely overwhelming. Whether you are living with ADHD, are newly diagnosed or not yet assessed, each step comes with its own questions, and challenges.
Perhaps you are relieved that you have a diagnosis after so long, or maybe it came completely out of the blue? Either way, the most common question I hear is, what do I do now? How do I fit into the world with this new identity? Who am I?
I can help you to find answers to these questions, and uncover a way to come to terms with your diagnosis and what this means for you. I will use personalised psychological approaches to explore your struggles with you and will recognise if and when you may need medication, as well as if the medication is working. With these aspects in mind, together, we will identify your goals and create a practical approach to reach them.
Anxiety
It is completely normal to feel anxious from time to time, especially when thinking about the future or when making big life decisions. But sometimes, this fear of the future can take over and negatively impact our day to day life. Some people don’t know that they have anxiety, and for others, it can completely overwhelm them. Social anxiety and OCD anxiety are two of the most common types of anxiety that I work with.
Perhaps you feel like you don’t know how to act around other people in order to be liked or accepted. Or maybe you have recently become a mother and you are struggling with your new identity? How do you fit into the world now?
Finding the answer to these questions can feel like a mountain to climb. Together we will explore these worries and fears that are stopping you from moving forward in the way that you want. In addition, we will explore any physical symptoms that you might be experiencing with your anxiety. I can help you understand how to use certain behavioural techniques to regulate your emotions at these times. This puts you back in control.
Are you feeling stuck and fearful of the future? If you feel this way, there is something that needs to change in your life, something that is pushing you to take action. When we are unable to choose which action to take, we feel anxious. Do you need some support in deciding which direction to go in and which choice to make in order to reach your long term goals? I am here to listen and empower you to make decisions and take the lead in your own life, at your own pace.
Chronic Pain
I currently work in the pain management unit at St Thomas’ Hospital in London and I use different techniques to help people accept and cope with the condition in a way that feels authentic for them, with the goal of having a happier life. Have you had an accident or experienced a trauma that has left you anxious and in pain? Or maybe you are in pain but you can’t find the cause?
I understand that sometimes it can feel overwhelming trying to understand how you fit into the world now that you are living with chronic pain. Especially when you might not ‘look’ like you are in pain to others. Day to day tasks that used to be easy are now challenging and require a lot of energy. Maintaining your identity with this chronic condition may feel like a struggle, and perhaps you feel alone in the fight. That is where I can help.
Together, we will explore your experiences and the issues you are facing and we will seek to understand the triggers and overall impact on your quality of life. By adopting an integrative approach that combines many therapeutic techniques, we will address how this pain has impacted your mental and physical wellbeing and learn new ways to cope with the pain in a way that is manageable for you. Then, we will decide on the best way forward to empower you and help you regain control of your life.
My approach to treatment
It is completely normal to feel scared or nervous about the first appointment. Taking the first step is always difficult. Coming to therapy can sometimes provoke feelings of anxiety and uncertainty even for those who have experience of therapy in the past. I understand that sharing your feelings, thoughts and worries with someone you have just met can feel overwhelming. I want to assure you that there is no expectation for you to tell me everything. I will sit and listen to you, and give you the space to share what you want with me. We will build a trusting relationship together, before we begin our therapeutic work.
In our first session together, we will discuss what brings you to therapy, as well as what your expectations are. This is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and assess your needs in an empathetic and non-judgmental space. You can also get a sense of how I work and how you feel about me. Our relationship is one of the most important factors of your therapy.
Therapy is a sacred and collaborative experience, where both of us will work together to shape the sessions. You are the expert of your own life, and our goal together is to understand your struggles, needs and desires. What do you want in life? How do you get there? This time together is for you, to talk out your ideas and wishes in a safe and supportive environment. I truly believe that this therapy is a meaningful step towards leading a more fulfilling life.
Personalised treatment plans
I take an integrative approach to therapy. This is because there isn’t just one therapeutic approach to help you in every situation, instead, I use several different approaches to help you explore, understand and manage your struggles. Some of the approaches I use are: Existential therapy, Ontological therapy, Phenomenology, Psychodynamics, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).
Depending on your goals and needs, I will create a personalised plan that encompasses you and your unique experiences and needs. Once I understand your experience the next step will always be psychoeducation. We will discuss how you experience your struggles, and understand the processes happening in the body. By understanding how the brain and body react you can learn to identify your triggers and take control of future situations.
Alongside this, the focus of our work together will be to create a roadmap to reach the goals you have identified. We will use different tools to help you embrace your thoughts and feelings rather than fighting them. This will help you to lead a more meaningful and purposeful life. Often this can also include new lifestyle habits and healthy routines to support your mental and physical well-being. Over time we will tweak and adjust the plan to make sure that you are happy and thriving.
Medication
As a psychotherapist I perceive your concerns as challenges related to the way you live, rather than approaching them solely from a medical perspective. I’m not a psychiatrist, so I can’t recommend or prescribe medication. However, I believe medication can be beneficial for some people for a short amount of time and in some cases it can help people engage more in therapy. If you are currently taking medications or considering it, I can work with you and your doctor to create a collaborative treatment plan. If medications are needed, then I believe they should be used in moderation. The ultimate goal is to provide the most comprehensive and effective support for your well-being.
Education & Training
I’m an experienced integrative psychotherapist with a PhD in Psychology from the University of Southampton and I am currently finishing a doctorate degree in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. I am a registered member of the British Psychological Society and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
I currently work privately as a psychotherapist through Spanish and English, and as a psychologist at INPUT Pain Management Unit in St Thomas’ Hospital London. As part of my doctoral training, my research is focused on the impact of the climate crisis on mental health, specifically on understanding the experience of women that chose not to have children because of climate change. I have published many research papers and a book chapter on the topic of ADHD, conduct disorder and the brain and I’m passionate about applying the latest research to clinical practice.
Personal interests
Outside of work, my personal interest lies in finding joy in the simple, everyday experiences that often go unnoticed. One of my pleasures is taking the time to savour a cup of coffee, enjoying each sip. I find peace and calmness in visiting the park and taking leisurely walks with my dog, appreciating the beauty of nature. Being in the company of friends and family brings me happiness, yet I also value the moments of solitude when I can connect with myself. These seemingly mundane activities hold a special place in my heart, reminding me to cherish the small joys that life has to offer.
