Prior to this I spent almost 4 years in the Clinical Health Psychology Department at St Ann's Hospital (Haringey, London). I offered assessment and therapy to clients primarily with medical problems and chronic illnesses such as Women's Health issues, chronic pain, IBS, epilepsy, diabetes etc. I facilitated a Back to Life Programme for people with chronic back pain, this group included exercises as well as teaching them how to make the most of their lives despite the pain and teaching them coping strategies. I also designed a group for people suffering from Chronic Fatigue (ME etc) Syndrome, and integrated techniques from Mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapies into both the programmes. It is whilst working here that I was trained in the clinical application of Hypnosis and have found it helpful with many clients with physical health problems, especially those who have a lot of pain and difficulty in relaxing. My previous work experience also includes working with people with learning difficulties and within an Older Adults Psychology Service. I spent several years working within a Primary Care Psychology service in the NHS where I saw clients referred by their GP's (for a variety of problems) for individual therapy for a maximum of 6-8 sessions. I also have experience of working as a Forensic Psychologist at Maidstone prison.
