I have previously trained as a Sign Language Interpreter at the University of Bristol and subsequently went on to head a national charity working in support of learning disabled people with a sensory impairment. I retrained in Psychodynamic Counselling at Goldsmiths College, University of London.

I now work as an independent clinical practitioner providing a one-to-one psychotherapy service for Cygnet Hospital, Harrogate. I also work with women diagnosed with Borderline Personality Order in a secure hospital in Bradford using non-invasive psychotherapy interventions. I am also one of 24 professionals in the UK offering counselling to deaf people in their first language, British Sign Language.

As the child of a deaf parent I am interested in non-verbal communication and deafness. I have a special interest in eating disorders, relationships and personality disorders. I am undertaking further study in Integrative Psychotherapy.

I am registered with British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work in accordance with BACP ethical guidelines and am mindful of my responsibilities to my clients and practice. As part of my continuing professional development I am undertaking further training to register with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP).

My colleagues and clients have described me as innovative, courageous, challenging and humorous!!

You can download my CV.

I was born in Australia where I got my medical qualifications. I worked in General Practice for two years. I moved to the United Kingdom with my then husband and daughter. I now have three daughters. I trained in this country in psychiatry. I was a senior house officer in psychiatry for four years. In my last post in Harrogate I further developed my special interest in managing challenging clients with personality disorder. When the opportunity came when Cygnet Health decided to open a specialist low secure unit for women with severe personality disorder and self-harm I applied and got the post. I find working with these women very rewarding and I see the relationship that develops with them as the foundation for the recovery. I am involved in training staff and one to one therapy of the women. I have also been involved in teaching NHS staff and voluntary sector workers on how to manage self-harm and aggression. I have trained in trauma focused therapy including EMDR. I see myself as courageous and humorous person that enjoys her work and personal life.

You can download my CV.