Hi, I’m Steph.

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I understand that reaching out for support, whether for yourself or your child, can feel overwhelming, especially when motivation feels low or things have been difficult for a while. My aim is to offer a warm, supportive, and collaborative space where children, young people, and their families feel understood and supported.

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I’m an accredited CBT therapist and EMDR trained clinician, with specialist experience working with children, young people, and families. I have extensive experience supporting perinatal anxiety, birth trauma, and postnatal distress. I also work with neurodiversity and recognise the importance of adapting therapy to meet individual needs.

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I know that meaningful change often happens when families feel supported together, not in isolation. I work closely with parents and caregivers to help create the best possible outcomes for children and young people, even when things feel stuck or hard to start. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, I’m here to help you take the next step in a way that feels manageable and hopeful.

 

​My Qualifications​

BSc (Hons) Psychology, University of Lincoln
MSc Mental Health Nursing, University of Nottingham
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, University of Derby
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Parts 1-3, EMDR Europe Academy

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Additional Clinical Training

Level 3 Safeguarding Adults and Children
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule
Counselling Skills

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My Professional Accreditations​

Registered Nurse - Mental Health NMC
BABCP Accredited CBT Practitioner

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Additional Information

Enhanced DBS Adults and Child​

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My Experience
With over a decade of experience in the NHS, private, and voluntary sectors, I have worked extensively with both adults and children. I am a Registered Mental Health Nurse with a degree in Psychology, complemented by additional training in counselling, as well as specialised qualifications in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).

My professional journey also includes a role as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Derby, where I contributed to the Educational Mental Health Practitioner Post-Graduate Diploma. This program focused on increasing access to low-intensity CBT in schools, reflecting my passion for the significant impact that early intervention can have. I have a particular interest in supporting clients living with anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, and low self-esteem. My extensive experience with neurodiversity in both educational and clinical settings enables me to tailor my approach to best meet each individual’s unique needs.

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I also have a special interest in perinatal mental health, including birth trauma, baby loss and fertility issues. This interest stems from my own personal experiences, as well as my previous involvement with 'The Family Psychological Support Service' an NHS-commissioned specialist service to support families who were involved with the independent review into maternity services in Nottingham.

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My Commitment to You​

Whilst my sessions are primarily based on the evidence-based treatment protocols of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and EMDR, my approach is grounded within a compassionate and non-judgmental ethos, which focuses on an empathic understanding of your difficulties from within the social context of your life. I do not try to fit my clients into diagnostic or treatment ‘boxes’ and strongly believe that us collaborating together to find the most meaningful therapeutic journey for you will best enable you to reach your goals within therapy.

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Please contact Optimism if you would like a copy of my full Bio.