What is Clinical Psychology?
Clinical psychology aims to reduce psychological distress and to enhance and promote psychological well-being. The job of a clinical psychologist is to work collaboratively with individuals or groups, to connect psychological science, theory and evidence to the human experience. Often this work is through psychological therapy, as well as consultation, supervision and training. Most clinical psychologists draw on a number of different evidence-based psychological therapies, including cognitive behavioural therapy.
Clinical psychologists are trained to work with a wide range of mental and physical health problems including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, learning difficulties and managing health conditions.
All clinical psychologists have a minimum of six years academic and clinical study (3 years undergraduate and a 3 year Doctorate) as part of their training. The term “clinical psychologist” is a protected title under Health Care and Professions Council, which means that only professionals who have completed the accredited training may use the title.
Dr Louise Tarrant
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist who provides specialist psychological assessments and therapy for adults who have distressing mental or physical health symptoms. I have additional specific expertise in working with adults who are struggling with Chronic Pain.
Dr Helen Fairchild
Dr Helen Fairchild is an experienced Clinical Psychologist who has worked with children, young people and families for 20 years. She worked in the NHS and charity sector before coming to The Old Rectory Clinic. Helen is trained to help with problems such as depression, low self-esteem, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic, social anxiety, poor sleep, self-harm, anger and behavioural difficulties. She predominantly uses a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) model, but also uses parenting and other approaches depending on the needs of the family.
Dr Carole Francis-Smith
Carole is an experienced Counselling Psychologist with a wide range of experience and training. She works with adults (18+) who struggle with anxiety, depression, low mood, loss, bereavement, relationship difficulties, making and adjusting to changes in their life, work related stress, burnout/rust out and more complex issues. She offers tailored support to adults across their life span and with individuals who struggle with high self-critical thinking and shame.