I am currently a first year clinical psychologist trainee (2022-2025). My first placement is within an Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services, Milton Keynes.
Prior Experience:
Before joining the DClinPsy I completed a PhD at King’s College London, supervised by Professors Francesca Happé and Will Mandy, and funded by the Economic and Social Research Council. My thesis explored barriers to diagnosis and support for autistic women and girls, with a particular focus on the influence of camouflaging and school support. During my PhD I also achieved an Associate Fellowship from Advanced Higher Education for my teaching practice.
Prior to my PhD I completed my BSc in Psychology (2012-2015) at the University of Reading and an MSc in Mental Health Studies (2015-2016) at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience. During my undergraduate degree I worked as an honorary assistant psychologist in the Royal Berkshire Neurodevelopmental Pathway. Throughout my master’s degree, I was an honorary assistant psychologist within the National Psychosis Unit and a mental health rehabilitation service. In these roles I developed and co-facilitated group cognitive behavioural therapy interventions. Following my master’s degree, I was the lead research assistant on a longitudinal project exploring gender differences in autism. In this position I conducted a range of cognitive and clinical assessments with a diverse range of participants. I also lead focus groups to ensure that our research was in line with community priorities.
During my PhD I worked as an honorary assistant psychologist in a private clinic. In this role I supported clients with a range of mental health difficulties, primarily using Compassion Focused Therapy and Mindfulness- based approaches. I have also co-facilitated post-diagnostic support groups for autistic women and young girls. I am trained to conduct autism assessments (ADOS, ADI) and I have utilised these skills in both private and NHS autism diagnostic services. My colleagues and I are in the process of developing clinical tools to improve the recognition of non-traditional presentations of autism.
I am passionate about volunteering and have volunteered at a range of charities including Samaritans and MIND. I am currently a trustee and mentor for Battersea Befriending Network, a London-based charity aiming to alleviate loneliness and social isolation for those with experience of poor mental health in the community.
Clinical and Research Interests
Whilst I am entering the DClinPsy with an open mind about possible future research and clinical interests, I am passionate about improving access to and effectiveness of mental health intervention for neurodivergent people.
