Areas of expertise
Women’s Services including Trauma & PTSD
I have a special interest in women’s mental health and I have worked as a Consultant Psychiatrist within the NHS and private sector in Women’s Services. I understand the many barriers women face when it comes to seeking help for the challenges they face. Whether those obstacles are physical, mental or related to life circumstances, I firmly believe every woman deserves to be listened to and supported.
Challenges with menstruation, pregnancy, menopause and trauma (including PTSD) affect many women today. Struggling through these experiences alone can feel confusing and overwhelming. When you come to see me, I will take the time to explore your full history, giving you the space and time to share your experiences with me.
Trauma & PTSD
Navigating through traumatic experiences requires a gentle, informed and deeply compassionate approach. Many women find it hard to talk about their traumatic experiences because they don't have a safe place to do so. Often, there’s not enough time in a GP appointment to discuss the deeper reasons behind the issues you’re facing. Unfortunately, this can lead to some women being prescribed medications without having a chance to talk about everything that's happened to them.
In my sessions, I understand the need to take our time to build trust and create a safe space for you to talk. We'll take it slow, looking closely at your past experiences and how they affect you now. Going gently through your history, we will navigate a path forward and create a unique treatment plan for you. This plan might include talking therapies, and we'll also look at other things that can help, like eating right, and getting enough exercise. I want you to know that it is possible to learn how to handle these traumatic experiences so that you can live your life fully again.
Menopause
Going through the menopause can be a challenging time, both mentally and physically. Even though there is a lot of information out there, people don’t talk about it enough, and it can feel like no one really understands what you're going through. This can make it hard to know where to turn for help, which can be incredibly frustrating and alienating.
I want to reassure you that there are ways to help manage the difficult feelings and symptoms that come with the menopause. I’m sure you have a lot of questions and concerns about how it’s affecting your mind and body. We'll work together to look at everything that could be influencing you during this time, like your hormone levels, what you eat, and any stress or challenges you're facing. This way, we can find the best ways to support you.
Medico-Legal Reports
I also work as a psychiatric expert witness providing medico-legal reports for civil and criminal courts on a weekly basis. My particular area of interest is in personal injury and the psychiatric impact of trauma (including sexual, violence, neglect, domestic, historic sexual abuse and abuse in the workplace).
I write over 50 reports a year and have consulted in claims involving NHS Trusts, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Justice, the Metropolitan Police and other institutions. I have been instructed in a large number of the Grenfell fire claims and have extensive experience giving oral evidence in court.
My approach to treatment
I understand that talking to a psychiatrist can feel intimidating. It’s normal to be anxious or nervous about seeking help, especially if you’ve felt unheard or disregarded in the past. Please be reassured that taking the first step and reaching out is often the hardest one.
Once we’ve talked for a while, you’ll find our sessions become a place where you can relax. Soon, you’ll start to feel the benefits that come from having someone compassionate and qualified to share your worries with. I’m highly experienced with complex and challenging cases, so you will be in safe and very capable hands with me.
Many people I’ve treated have felt overlooked in the past and naturally feel apprehensive about opening up. I aim to remedy this by making you feel comfortable through my approach of deep listening, careful exploration, and empathy. This is your time and we will take things at your pace. Everything you say and share with me has immense value and worth.
To help you understand your symptoms, I like to talk about the latest research related to your condition. It can feel validating to know that your worries are often being experienced by many others too. Moreover, mental health and well-being are deeply connected to lifestyle habits like diet, exercise, and stress management. By examining these aspects of your life, we can develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms.
Your first consultation
Our first meeting is all about getting to know you and the unique issues you’re experiencing. We’ll talk about your life so far including your family, relationships and any big challenges you’ve faced. By looking at how your past shapes your present, we can really get to the heart of what's been bothering you.
I believe in looking at all parts of your life, including your habits like what you eat, how active you are, and how you deal with stress. By the end of our first session, we'll start creating a treatment plan that's just right for you, tailored to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Personalised treatment plans
Your treatment plan will be as unique as you are. Everyone is different, so what works for one person might not work for another. We’ll work together to create a holistic treatment plan that feels collaborative rather than dictated.
I’m a great advocate of the benefits of nutrition and exercise on mental health and well-being. Whenever I make any recommendations for lifestyle changes, like adjusting your diet or starting a new exercise routine, I will always take into account your personal preferences and needs.
Your treatment plan will be designed to help you improve and progress at a pace that feels right for you, there’s no rush. I’ll be here by your side through any challenges with support and encouragement every step of the way.
Medication
I understand that the idea of medication can be daunting. I’m here to help you understand when it might be beneficial and when other types of treatment should be explored first. I’ll always explain the benefits and any potential risks in detail so you feel informed and empowered. I believe that medication should only be used as long as necessary, and I’ll always recommend using medication alongside other types of treatment to help you progress and move forward.
In cases where medication could be helpful, my recommendations are always based on the best available evidence and the latest clinical guidelines.
Education & Training
I’m a Consultant Psychiatrist with a special interest in Women’s Services and Forensic Psychiatry. I’m registered with the General Medical Council and am a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Currently I work in the NHS as a Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist in East London NHS Foundation Trust.
I have been committed to Women’s Services since 2012, holding the position of Clinical Lead of Women’s Services at St. Andrews, Northamptonshire from 2015 to 2017. I was also a Specialist Registrar in Forensic Psychiatry at the prestigious South London & Maudsley Hospital from 2009 to 2012. My work has been included in many publications and peer-reviewed journals, including The British Medical Journal and Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health. I’ve also co-edited an Oxford handbook on Medical Leadership and Management. My interest in medico-legal issues has led me to present at both national and international symposiums including those held at the Royal College of Psychiatrists and Yale University.
Regarding my education, I received my MBChB Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland in 2001. I went on to become an MRCPsych Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists in 2009. A few years later in 2012, I received my CCT Specialist Register in Forensic Psychiatry from the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Due to my interest in population health and well-being, I completed an MSc in Public Health/Health Services Management from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine before attaining an Executive Masters in Medical Leadership from Bayes Business School. Most recently I was awarded a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Beyond my clinical endeavours, I have always been passionate about leadership and management in the mental health sphere. I’m currently a board member of Crime in Mind, and have held board member positions on the Forensic Psychiatry Executive Committee and Leadership and Management Committee, both at the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Personal interests
I am a strong believer in the connection between creativity and mental health. Outside of my work, I enjoy painting and drawing as part of my creative practice. I also love running and exploring new landscapes through travel.
