About me
I am a chartered Counselling Psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). Prior to my doctoral training I was already a fully qualified and BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and registered counsellor with the BACP. I have over 18 years experience in the treatment of a wide range of complex psychological, behavioural and emotional problems and I have worked in primary, secondary, forensic and acute settings.
I am originally from Venezuela, and so I’m able to provide my services in Spanish if preferred.
My primary interests are in the treatment of anxiety disorders (panic disorder, generalized anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety), depression, addictions, low self-esteem, childhood abuse and relationship problems.
I work collaboratively and have a humanistic philosophy – I believe that while I may be an expert in my field, clients are experts in themselves so I listen empathically and place great emphasis on the therapeutic relationship.
I abide by the professional and ethical standards laid down by the BPS, HCPC, BABCP and BACP and have full DBS (formerly CRB) clearance.
My qualifications and training
My background is in Psychology (BSc Hon degree from 1998-2002) and later I completed a diploma in Integrative Counselling (2002-2004).
I have an MSc in Evolutionary Psychology which is useful for understanding the biological basis and the evolutionary reasons of why psychological problems develop.
I completed a post-graduate diploma in Cognitive Therapy for anxiety and depression as part of the NHS IAPT programme (improving access to psychological therapies) where I worked between 2009-2016.
I also completed a 4-year doctorate course in Counselling Psychology which lead to HCPC accreditation and registration as a BPS Chartered Psychologist.
I am level 3 EMDR trained.