Since qualifying as a Clinical Psychologist in 1979, I have had extensive experience of working with children and young people within NHS mental health services. The posts I have undertaken have required a highly developed knowledge of the theory and practice of psychological assessment and intervention and I have gained experience of working therapeutically with individuals, families and groups as well as providing consultation, supervision and training to a range of other professionals. 

I have developed particular expertise in working with children and young people with neurodevelopmental difficulties and their families in a variety of settings. Throughout my career I have challenged traditional thinking about difficult behaviours and highlighted the importance of considering the history and context of children’s lives to better understand the meaning of behaviour and enable more creativity in developing positive behaviour to support and promote well-being. 

During the course of my work I have always actively promoted a collaborative approach to working with young people and their families as well as encouraging their involvement in the development and evaluation of service provision. I have gained extensive experience of planning and delivering service change in complex environments and have demonstrated the capacity to lead and support innovation. My role as a Specialist Adviser with the Care Quality Commission has provided opportunities to be involved  in inspections of complex mental health care organisations and to learn from good practice.

I am passionate about giving a voice to and enriching the lives of children and young people with developmental differences and I am commited to ensuring the provision of timely, flexible and responsive services with the needs of children and young people at the heart of all developments.

I continue to take an interest in current affairs and I am active in my local community. I am also keen on sport both as a participant and observer. I am a keen tennis player and I practice yoga. I follow my local football team with a passion and never miss a home match.

For your information I am registered with:

• The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
   
• The British Psychological Society (BPS)

For your information I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Registration number PYL24628. As required by the HCPC, I maintain high standards of supervision, training, professional skills and behaviour and I hold an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).