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We are a team of professionally trained and accredited psychological therapists offering a range of evidence-based treatments for a wide variety of emotional difficulties.

Clinical Director and Clinical Psychologist

Dr Stella Papadakis

Health and Care Professions Council: PYL19121
Registered with the British Psychological Society Membership number 168364

Qualifications

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (2007) Royal Holloway University of London
BSC with Hons: Experimental Psychology (2002), University of Sussex

I use a client centred approach adapting and drawing upon a range of psychological models to best support the individual. Predominantly trained in cognitive behavioural therapy, I also appreciate acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion focused, psychodynamic, and systemic approaches. Above all I understand that the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between therapist and client, and the value of offering a non-judgemental, empathic space to allow the client to explore and understand their difficulties, enabling them to collaboratively come to an understanding of how they can best help themselves to live a more rewarding and enjoyable life.

Through my career I have gained experience of working in forensic, inpatient and outpatient community settings, with clients of all ages and a wide variety of difficulties. I have developed a special interest in working with children, adolescents and families and have many years of experience of working in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in the NHS. I have worked in both community and clinic settings, offering support and therapeutic intervention to treat a wide range of difficulties. I have worked with individuals, groups, parents and directly with children, as well as consulting and supporting other professionals, supervising trainees, qualified psychologists and other professionals. I have also delivered teaching in the Doctoral Clinical Psychology course at Royal Holloway University, and the Masters in Mental Health Studies at the Institute of Psychiatry.

Doctoral Thesis

To what extent do the different dimensions of self-esteem in adolescence relate to the components of future thinking and future self-concept?

Clinical Director and Clinical Psychologist

Dr Laura Krieger

Health and Care Professions Council: PYL24222

Qualifications

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (2009) The University of Edinburgh
BSC with Hons: Experimental Psychology (2002) The University of Sussex

I use a combination of therapeutic approaches, both individual and family-based, for adolescents and adults with a range of concerns. My therapy provides a space to improve relationships, facilitate self-reflection, overcome difficulties, increase resilience, and lead a more authentic and contented life.

I qualified as a clinical psychologist from The University of Edinburgh in 2009. I have worked in a variety of NHS services including adults with chronic and severe mental health problems, early interventions for psychosis, child autism and mental health and adult learning disabilities.

Since 2014 I have worked in the medico-legal field, providing psychological assessment and treatment for people affected by accident or injury. This frequently involves the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (with trauma-focused CBT) and family work to address the complex dynamics that result from an individual experiencing a life-limiting injury.

In 2018 I left the NHS to focus on developing my independent practice. I have helped people with a range of difficulties including phobias, OCD, depression, anxiety (health, social and generalised), hair pulling, skin picking, relationship difficulties, gender dysphoria, bereavement, and the social and emotional challenges associated with autism and ADHD.

Although I enjoy the diversity of working with people at different stages of life, I have a particular interest in working with adolescents and young adults. Our therapeutic work often explores themes of individuation, existentialism, and identity. My therapy is also designed to equip young people with practical strategies to cope with the demands of social and academic pressure at this pivotal age.

The therapeutic relationship and people’s motivation to engage with honesty and curiosity are key to good therapeutic outcomes.

I provide regular clinical supervision to other clinical and counselling psychologists working independently, or in the medico-legal field. I also run mindfulness and discussion groups on a voluntary basis for Holocaust survivors and individuals affected by separation and divorce.

Doctoral Thesis

Living A Valued Life with Psychosis (The relationship between psychotic symptoms, illness beliefs, experiential avoidance, and success at valued living)

Counselling Psychologist

Dr Maya Khera

Health and Care Professions Council: PYL039141

Qualifications

Doctorate in Counselling Psychology (2019). University of Surrey, UK.
MSc Psychology (2013). University of Essex, UK
Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery (2011). Harvard Program in Refugee Trauma, Blended Learning.
MSc Violence, Conflict and Development (2008). School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, UK.
BA International Relations with Political Science (2003). University of Birmingham, UK

I am a Chartered Psychologist (BPS) and a registered Counselling Psychologist (HCPC) offering therapy to individuals with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, relationship problems, adverse childhood experiences, perinatal trauma, moral injury, and burnout.

As an integrative practitioner, I work flexibly, dialogically, and collaboratively to outline, assess, and examine concerns in a holistic way that considers past experiences, presenting problems, and desires for the future. During therapy, I attend (explicitly and implicitly) to issues of diversity, exploring the ways in which socio-cultural background, sexual and gender identity, disability, and other intersectional identities influence our lived experience, meaning making, and wellbeing.

I am trained to Doctoral level in a variety of therapeutic approaches including humanistic, existential, psychodynamic, and CBT. I have undertaken additional training in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET). These therapeutic models are utilised flexibly, such that the therapy is tailored in accordance with individual needs.

While theories and techniques are important, research supports that the success of any therapeutic work is largely dependent upon the quality of the therapeutic relationship (i.e. how client and therapist relate to each other). My approach to therapy is deeply relational in that I strive to facilitate a safe, trusting, and authentic connection with my clients, so they feel willing and able to explore sensitive personal struggles with openness, curiosity, and courage. For me, the beauty of therapy is that it provides a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space to explore, process, understand and make sense of your lived experiences in a way that can open up new possibilities of how we relate to oneself, others, and the world around us.

In addition to my clinical practice, I have spent several years working in academia on doctoral trainings in counselling psychology and psychotherapy, including teaching and training, clinical supervision, research, and viva-voce examinations. Given my background in international humanitarian work in conflict affected areas, I also provide clinical trainings and reflective practice groups for staff working with communities affected by war trauma, forced migration, and human rights abuses.

Doctoral thesis

“When You Feel Responsible for Someone’s Death, The Guilt Will Never Go Away”: A Theoretical Thematic Analysis of Humanitarian Workers’ Experiences of Moral Injury.

Clinical Psychologist

Dr Jacqueline Champagne

Health and Care Professions Council: PYL043389

Qualifications

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (2023) Royal Holloway University of London
MSc: Mental Health Studies (2017) Kings College London
BSc with Hons: Psychology (2014) University of Durham

Life is complex with its inevitable ups and downs and ongoing challenges that can lead to anxiety, stress, low mood, self-criticism and low self-esteem. I strongly believe that therapy can be a rewarding experience in providing a safe and non-judgmental space to build an authentic relationship and a platform that enables and empowers an individual to live a life that feels meaningful to them.

I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist from Royal Holloway University of London in 2023. I have worked with a range of complexity and diverse client groups across mental health services in London, including adult primary care (The Maudsley, South London), crisis (Hounslow) and inpatient units (Hammersmith & Fulham), chronic pain management (Whipps Cross), child and adolescent primary mental health (Westminster), community neuropsychology (Tower Hamlets) and adult and child primary care trauma response (Kensington & Chelsea).

I work with a range of cognitive-behavioural, compassion-focused, acceptance & commitment, narrative and systemic therapeutic modalities and can offer a more integrated approach, depending on a client’s needs. I support adults, adolescents and young people with anxiety and low mood relating to e.g. low self-esteem, perfectionism, health, OCD, trauma, phobias, panic, pregnancy, social or relational difficulties and long-term health/neurological conditions.

I am particularly interested in working with children, young people and adolescents, currently broadening my skills and expertise with this group across my part-time NHS role in CAMHS and my private practice. At their pace, we can work together to make sense of what has happened in their life that may have led to them feeling stuck, before helping the individual develop useful coping skills and strategies that enable them to navigate through complex socio-political and academic demands.

Doctoral Thesis

Forgotten first-time fathers: understanding their experiences of postnatal depression

Clinical Psychologist

Dr Natalia Kouzoupi

Health and Care Professions Council: PYL043381

Qualifications

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (2023) Royal Holloway University of London
MSC: Clinical Neurodevelopmental Sciences (2018), King’s College London
BSC with Hons: Psychology (2017), University of Bath

I employ a versatile set of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioural, compassion-focused, attachment-based and systemic techniques. I work in an integrative manner, recognising the importance of tailoring interventions to each person’s specific circumstances. I support adults, children, young people and their families in navigating various mental health difficulties, including anxiety, panic, phobias, low mood, relational difficulties, self-esteem, trauma and parenting challenges. I am especially interested in working with children and young people and I am broadening my expertise with this group through my CAMHS NHS role and my private work.

I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist from Royal Holloway and had the privilege of working across different settings with individuals spanning the entire age spectrum. I bring experience from a range of environments, including adult crisis and inpatient care and older adults with dementia and mental health difficulties. I also have extensive experience working with children, young people and their families having supported young people with physical health conditions, children and adolescents in the primary mental health setting and children and their families with complex trauma and relational difficulties.

Through my varied clinical work, I understand the uniqueness of each individual’s needs and experiences. In my clinical work, I adopt a person-centred approach grounded in prioritising building meaningful relationships and allowing individuals to feel heard, understood and valued. With a commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment, I look to foster genuine connections, empower individuals to navigate the complexities of their experiences and support them in leading meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Choosing a psychologist is a significant decision, and so I am here to provide the guidance, understanding, and expertise needed to support your journey toward positive mental health.

Doctoral Thesis

How does trauma influence decision-making around the use of restrictive practices in the adult acute inpatient setting.

Psychotherapist

Dr Avantika Bhatia

Qualifications

PhD Counselling Psychology (2016). University of Maryland College Park
MS Counselling Psychology (2013). University of Maryland College Park
MA Rehabilitation Counselling (2010). University of Maryland College Park
MA Clinical Psychology (2008). Delhi University
BA Applied Psychology (2006). Delhi University

I provide therapy to adult clients for a range of concerns including relationship difficulties, identity-related issues, life transitions, depression and anxiety. I have also developed a specialist area of interest in women’s health, including mental health concerns during pregnancy, postpartum periods, motherhood and career development. I have been trained at doctoral level as an integrative psychotherapist, though I am most drawn to using a relational psychodynamic approach along with paying close attention to each person’s unique cultural context. At the beginning of therapy, I attempt to create a space that feels safe, accepting, and non-judgmental, and I work collaboratively to explore how therapy can best help clients meet their goals. My therapeutic work often focuses on deepening clients’ self-understanding with the goal of helping people find the sense of empowerment and freedom that often accompanies greater self-awareness.

I began my training by completing a Master’s in Clinical Psychology at Delhi University in India, followed by a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counselling at the University of Maryland in the United States. With the goal of further developing my therapy skills, I completed my doctorate in counselling psychology, focused on research and clinical practice, at the University of Maryland in 2016. As a result of my therapy experiences, I was very drawn to the connection that develops between a therapist and a client and thus developed my research on psychotherapy process and outcome, in particular on the psychotherapy relationship. In clinical practice, I was trained in various treatment modalities including psychodynamic therapy, CBT and humanistic therapy. I provided individual therapy, career therapy and group therapy to clients from diverse backgrounds. In addition, I worked extensively with university college students addressing issues such as adjustment, cultural identity, gender dysphoria, eating disorders, trauma, grief, loss, depression and anxiety.

Since 2016, I have worked in academia and therapeutically. I worked as a psychotherapist at a maternity hospital and in private practice, and as Assistant Professor of Psychology at Ashoka University, in India. In the UK I am a registered member of the BACP. I currently work as a Senior Lecturer at Roehampton University and as a part-time lecturer at NYU London. My research focuses on psychotherapy processes, perinatal concerns, women’s and young adults’ mental health. I have published an extensive number of articles in these fields. I value the intersecting roles of clinical practice and research and apply these to help create opportunities for client growth. I feel fortunate to have had personal and professional development opportunities through my experiences in the US, India and now the UK. I believe these experiences also help me work with clients from diverse backgrounds and appreciate the unique context of each person in therapy.

Doctoral Thesis

“The Termination Phase of Treatment: Therapists’ Perspective on the Therapeutic Relationship and Outcome

Clinical Psychologist and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist

Dr Nikola Mongey

BABCP Accreditation Number: 998543
British Psychological Society Membership Number: 384987
Health and Care Professions Council PYLO44893

Qualifications

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (2024), Royal Holloway University of London
Post Graduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (2019), King’s College London
BSc with Hons Psychology with Criminology (2013), Middlesex University

Through my years of experience in working therapeutically, I have developed skills in different therapeutic modalities including narrative, trauma focused, attachment-based and systemic approaches alongside my well-grounded experience in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).  I am thoughtful about how wider contextual and relational issues may impact on individual therapy and work holistically to promote people’s well-being. I tailor my therapeutic approach to individual’s needs, whilst collaboratively exploring their goals and wishes for therapy.

I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist from Royal Holloway University of London in 2024. I am also a fully (BABCP) accredited Cognitive and Behavioural Therapist. In my clinical practice, I have had the privilege of supporting children and young people with diverse needs for many years, including care-experienced young people and unaccompanied asylum-seeking minors, as well as those struggling with a variety of difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, low self-esteem, OCD and trauma. I have worked with individuals and families across mental health services, including adult crisis services, inpatient settings, and adults with learning disabilities. I have also been part of specialist national and local services providing mental health assessments, therapy and consultation for traumatised children and young people, as well as parents, carers and professionals supporting them.

It is common to need support with mental health and wellbeing, and therapy can be helpful whether you are hoping to work on a particular difficulty affecting your quality of life, or to help you understand more about yourself and your experiences. Whatever your hopes for therapy, I strongly believe in the value of strong and authentic therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space, where one can feel understood, listened to and supported.

Doctoral Thesis

Foster carers’ perceptions of the impact of trauma-informed training and consultation on their relationships with children and young people

Counselling Psychologist

Dr Zeina Bushnaq

Health and Care Professions Council: PYL041888

Qualifications

Doctorate in Counselling Psychology (2022). University of Roehampton, UK.
MSc Social & Applied Psychology (2016). University of Kent, UK.
BA Psychology (2013). Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.

With a diverse background that includes living in Canada, the Middle East, and the UK, and extensive experience in the NHS and various charitable organisations, I am committed to offering compassionate and empathetic support to adults from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. My practice is deeply rooted in a holistic and humanistic approach, emphasising the significant role of social identities in shaping individual experiences and fostering personal development. This diverse personal and professional history enriches my understanding and enhances my ability to connect with and support a wide range of clients.

I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including person-centered, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioural therapies (CBT). Additionally, I have advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), with a particular focus on ACT and CFT due to their effectiveness in treating a broad spectrum of emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Throughout my career, I have supported clients in managing and overcoming challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, and social phobia. I also address stressors related to work, relationships, and significant life transitions such as relocation, cultural adjustments, health challenges, retirement and bereavement, tailoring therapeutic strategies to suit each individual’s unique needs and circumstances.

I have a special interest and experience working with long-term physical conditions, including but not limited to gastrointestinal and cardiovascular diseases, long COVID, cancer, and chronic pain. My work in clinical health psychology is dedicated to helping clients navigate the emotional and lifestyle changes that arise with new health diagnoses, aiming to enhance their overall well-being and quality of life.

Additionally, I have a strong interest in social psychology, focusing especially on the importance of intersectionality. This area examines how overlapping social identities—such as age, ethnicity, gender, and more—impact aspects of an individual’s identity and experiences. By acknowledging and addressing these intersecting factors, I strive to provide a more comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health and well-being, ensuring that each client’s unique context is fully considered.

Doctoral Thesis

The impact of psychological factors and cognitive processes on help seeking behaviours and attitudes towards therapy in individuals with ileostomies and ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA).

Clinical Psychologist

Dr Sarah Atayero

Health and Care Professions Council: PYL043788

Qualifications

DClinPsy: Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (2023) Royal Holloway, University of London
MSc: Affective Disorders (2017) King’s College London
BA: Experimental Psychology (2016) University of Oxford

We all face life challenges that evolve and intensify at different stages of our lives. This can affect how we view ourselves, our relationships, and our connection to the world. In therapy, I provide a safe and non-judgemental space where you can explore these challenges and together we can work to create lasting changes that align with your values and goals.

As a clinical psychologist with over seven years of experience across NHS, private, and non-profit organisations, I have extensive experience supporting individuals of all ages with a range of difficulties. My previous roles have involved supporting adults experiencing work-related stress, burnout, depression, PTSD, racial trauma, long-term health conditions and relationship challenges. I have also supported children and young people with conditions such as OCD, low self-esteem, and anxiety. Additionally, I have worked with adults experiencing psychosis, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, delivering tailored interventions that consider cultural, faith and racial dynamics.

I work collaboratively with my clients, using a range of approaches tailored to their individual needs, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), mindfulness, systemic, narrative, and trauma-informed approaches. I champion a ‘come as you are’ ethos, offering a compassionate space for clients to explore their identity and beliefs. My practice considers broader social and systemic factors that impact mental health, ensuring that each intervention is not only individualised but deeply contextualised.

In addition to clinical practice, I provide organisational support, including reflective practice groups and anti-racism training. I have led initiatives to improve staff well-being, and have developed policies to enhance racial equity and inclusion in the workplace, creating safe spaces that promote psychological resilience and inclusivity.

Doctoral Thesis

Exploring how aspiring clinical psychologists from different racial groups experience and make sense of their NHS career trajectory.

Child and Adolescent Integrative Psychotherapist

Camille Etan

BACP Registered Member: 409737

Qualifications

MA in Integrative Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy (2024), Institute Of Arts in
Therapy & Education (IATE)
Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) Training (2023)
Postgraduate Diploma in Therapeutic Use of the Arts (2021), IATE

As an experienced Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist, I offer integrative, evidence-based, and trauma-informed support to children, adolescents, and families. My approach draws from psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, talking, and creative therapies, providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore emotions, understand behavioural patterns, and build resilience. I meet each individual where they are emotionally, thoughtfully considering their unique history, identity, and relationships.

My experience spans primary and secondary schools, providing therapy, group facilitation, and parent support. In primary schools I work with talking therapy but also specialise in the therapeutic use of arts and play to engage children effectively, fostering emotional exploration and growth in a safe and nurturing environment. By integrating talking therapy with creative methods, I help children express and process their feelings. I collaborate closely with families and school staff to ensure a holistic approach to the child’s well-being, advocating for their needs through clear communication and comprehensive support. My work with adolescents often focuses on navigating identity development, transitioning from primary, the complexities of adolescence, and addressing more complex mental health challenges.

I specialise in addressing a wide range of complex mental health and developmental conditions, including: Anxiety and depression, Trauma and PTSD, OCD and eating disorders, ASD and ADHD. I am particularly passionate about identity exploration and supporting individuals who perceive themselves as outside the dominant culture. My work helps young people navigate emotional, social and cultural differences while fostering a sense of belonging and self-understanding. For clients who struggle with verbal and emotional expression, I incorporate arts and play therapy to facilitate deeper emotional processing

Parent and Family Work

Using my training in DDP, I work with families through an attachment- and trauma-informed lens. By guiding parents in reflective practices, I help them understand their child’s emotional and behavioural response while providing practical strategies for building stronger, attuned relationships. This collaborative process fosters greater insight, empathy, and lasting improvements within the family system.

Group Therapy and Workshops

I facilitate group therapy sessions for children and adolescents, creating a safe space where participants can connect, learn emotional regulation, and build social skills. These sessions are particularly effective in school settings, addressing underlying behavioural challenges while fostering peer support.

Additionally, I collaborate with schools to deliver staff training and reflective practice sessions, ensuring holistic approach to supporting children’s mental health and well-being

Behavioural Coach

Amira Ashong

Qualifications

Foundation in Applied Behavioural Health and Recovery Coaching (2024)
MSc Pyschodynamics of Human Development (2022) Birbeck College
BSC Psychology (2020) Brunel University

I am a behavioural health and wellbeing coach, passionate about supporting young people as they navigate life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in a humanistic ethos, recognising that individuals already possess the tools and insights they need to create meaningful change. My role is to assist in this process, deepening self-discovery and fostering positive, sustainable growth.

I work with young people to help them develop resilience, enhance self-awareness, and move forward with confidence. Drawing on the GROW coaching model (Goal, Reality, Options, Way forward), I collaborate with adolescents and young adults to identify their goals, explore obstacles, and build actionable steps to achieve their aspirations. My focus is on providing practical strategies and creating a supportive space where clients feel empowered to make positive changes.

Alongside my role as a coach, I am continuing my professional development and training as an integrative psychotherapist. My academic background includes an MSc in Psychodynamics of Human Development, with a dissertation exploring the impact of body image on quality of life in young women, and a BSc in Psychology, with a dissertation investigating the impact of SSRIs on young adults’ quality of life. These areas of research have deepened my understanding of mental health and emotional wellbeing.

I am committed to offering young people the encouragement, guidance, and tools they need to thrive during this pivotal stage of life.

Assistant Psychologist

Miss Joanna Tait

Qualifications

BSC with Hons: Psychology (2023) The Open University

I am a recent graduate of a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, which I achieved whilst working full time as a primary school teaching assistant.

I have a passion for making a difference and robust experience of working with children facing emotional and developmental challenges. I bring a rich understanding of social dynamics and psychological theory, and their application, into effective intervention strategies for children.

Whilst working as a teaching assistant over the past four years I have provided specialist support to children with a range of different needs. These include cognitive and learning difficulties, ADHD, and autism (verbal and nonverbal). I am trained to deliver a range of psychological assessments and interventions, and have worked closely with educational psychologists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists. I am experienced in delivering individual and group interventions, adapted to the specific needs of the child. These include positive behaviour support, social skills training, emotion regulation techniques, CALM communication strategies, social stories, sensory circuits and visual aids.

I have a deep aspiration to help others and have a positive impact on people’s lives. I would like to gain further experience delivering psychological interventions with the goal of pursuing a career in clinical psychology.