I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist and practice within an integrative framework, drawing from psychodynamic and humanistic approaches. Whilst I also received some introductory training in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), I have undertaken additional Masters Level training in CBT, specialising in complex mental health and trauma, after qualifying as a Counselling Psychologist.
My own background informs my practice- being British-Indian, I bring my own experiences of navigating my identity and the complexities of this to understanding my clients and their own experiences of belonging. My cultural heritage and personal experiences have taught me a lot about being different to others, and I recognise that many of the people that I work with can struggle with this too.
I have worked in Adult mental health for over 12 years- both during my training and since qualifying. I have worked for a number of charitable organisations, various services within the NHS and in independent practice. I also work in academia, training others to become psychologists.
I favour a collaborative approach to the therapeutic process, working with clients to understand the root causes and maintenance of their struggles and finding ways to reduce psychological distress and enhance psychological wellbeing.
Central to my practice is the commitment to providing a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you feel able to explore your difficulties in depth. Here I will help you to develop your self-awareness and reflect on how you engage with others and your environment. Our struggles impact not only on ourselves, but also on our relationships and our general day-to-day living, so I aim to support you in bringing about lasting change and increase your coping capacity.
I have worked with a range of clients, with diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique perspectives and struggles. Some of the difficulties I have worked with include common mental health issues such as low mood, changeable mood, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety, and health anxiety. I have specialised in working with people who have complex emotional difficulties and/ or have experienced adverse experiences and trauma at any time of their lives. I have also worked with self-esteem issues, stress and sleep problems, loss, and issues. I have also assessed and treated clients with more severe mental health problems such as bipolar affective disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia and personality difficulties.
Additional training
– CBT Masters from University of Oxford, specialising in Complex Mental Health and Trauma
– Supervisor training (on BPS RAPPS register)
– Family Interventions for Psychosis (Eligible for Foundation Accreditation with AFT)
– PGCert in Learning & Teaching in Higher Education (ongoing)
– Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in CBT
– Schema informed CBT
– Leadership development programme (BPS, 2016)
What my clients have said
“It’s been the safest space i’ve ever felt myself in whilst discussing myself and my thoughts, which has meant I have been able to access much more from myself than I have ever allowed before.”
“Kind, helpful and always listens”
“It helped me to identify and address my issues, which I didn’t have the confidence to talk about before. My sessions took place over a period of time in which I was having to deal with a lot of changes and events, which my therapist was able to guide me through and best manage my feelings.”
“You helped me through a really awful time and helped me turn the corner.”
Professional Bodies
I am chartered with the British Psychological Society and a full member of the Division of Counselling Psychology. I am also registered with the Health and Care Professions Council which is the regulating authority for psychologists- ensuring they meet national standards of training, professional skills and behaviours. I am a member of the British Association for Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapists, awaiting accreditation.
Dr Neha Cattra | Counselling Psychologist 