My approach
Specialist assessment for complex presentations
I provide careful psychiatric assessment for adults with complex, longstanding or treatment-resistant difficulties. This includes looking closely at current symptoms, previous treatments, relevant medical factors and the wider psychological and social context, so that recommendations are thoughtful and clinically grounded.
Evidence-based TMS and Transcranial Neuromodulation stimulation
A central part of my work is transcranial neuromodulation stimulation. At London Psychiatry Clinic, our Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) service uses machines called Magventure and Exomind. We use protocols that depend on symptom pattern and severity. The most common target for stimulation is the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a brain region involved in emotional regulation, motivation, executive function and cognitive control. This approach may be considered for people with depression or OCD, and may also help with mental fatigue, reduced clarity, stress resilience and emotional balance.
Translating research into clinical care
My research and clinical work are closely linked. I have spent many years studying the brain mechanisms involved in mood, anxiety, compulsivity and addiction, and I bring that knowledge into patient care in a practical and accessible way. My focus is always on what may be most helpful for my patient, as an individual.
Collaborative and respectful practice
I aim to create a space where patients feel listened to and taken seriously. Treatment planning is collaborative, with clear explanations, realistic discussion of options, and a focus on helping each person make informed decisions about their care.
Education & Training
Qualifications
- Professor of Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation, University of Cambridge (2022-present)
- Distinguished Professor, Fudan University (2021-present)
- PhD in Neuroscience, Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, University College London (2006-2011)
- Clinical Research Fellow, Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA (2004-2009)
- Psychiatry Residency, University of Toronto, Canada (1997-2002)
- Medical Degree, University of British Columbia, Canada (1992-1997)
- BSc in Microbiology, First Class Degree, University of British Columbia, Canada (1988-1992)
Experience
- Professor, University of Cambridge (2022-present)
- Distinguished Professor, Fudan University (2021-present)
- Senior Principal Investigator, University of Cambridge (2016-present)
- Honorary Consultant Neuropsychiatrist, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (2011-present)
- Senior Clinical Research Associate, University of Cambridge (2011-present)
- Medical Research Council Senior Clinical Fellow, University of Cambridge (2016-2022)
- Wellcome Trust Intermediate Clinical Fellow, University of Cambridge (2011-2015)
- Associate Clinical Director, Behavioural and Cognitive Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge (2010-2011)
- Clinical Research Fellow, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, USA (2004-2009)
- Consultant Psychiatrist, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada (2002-2004)
Research & Teaching
- Leads an interventional neuropsychiatry research group across Cambridge and Shanghai, focusing on depression, compulsivity, addiction and neuromodulation.
- Has published extensively in neuropsychiatry, neuroscience and brain stimulation, with particular expertise in depression, OCD, addiction and related disorders.
- Has an extensive research background focused on understanding the biological and psychological mechanisms underlying mental health conditions, with the aim of supporting more personalised and effective care.
- Founder of Cam-Mind, a clinical service focused on translating transcranial magnetic stimulation research into patient care.
- Experienced in supervising postgraduate researchers, teaching clinicians and contributing to international neuropsychiatry and neuromodulation initiatives.
