Areas of expertise
Women’s Mental Health
I specialise in women's mental health and am a specialist perinatal psychiatrist. With over 25 years of experience, I deeply understand the unique challenges women face during different life stages. I support women during pregnancy, miscarriages, menopause, menstrual cycles, and other hormonal transitions.
My commitment to women's health is reflected in my ongoing work at institutions like the Mother and Baby Unit at Bethlem Royal Hospital, Maudsley Hospital, and Kings College Hospital. In 2023, I was honoured with an OBE for my services to Perinatal Psychiatry. I also serve as an advisor to the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.
Preconception planning
I’m passionate about supporting women planning to have a baby, from preconception to the postnatal period. Preconception planning involves helping you prepare mentally and emotionally for pregnancy. This is especially important for women with existing mental health conditions. I also offer support for women experiencing pregnancy loss, undergoing IVF, or feeling anxious about natural delivery.
Preconception appointments are crucial if you have an existing mental health condition, such as severe depression or bipolar disorder. We will discuss your mental health history and the potential impact of pregnancy on your condition. If you're taking medication, we'll discuss whether it's safe to continue taking it during pregnancy. Finally, we'll look at strategies to prevent relapse after birth. For example, women with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of relapse after childbirth, but early planning can greatly reduce this risk.
Mental Health During Pregnancy & Postpartum
Hormonal changes during pregnancy and after childbirth can significantly impact mental health. I provide comprehensive care for a wide range of conditions, including perinatal depression, anxiety, psychosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). My approach focuses on maintaining wellness, preventing relapse, and managing hormonal changes.
After birth, we will check hormone profiles and menstrual cycles to ensure balance. For example, sometimes I find that women’s progesterone levels are too low after having a baby. In such cases, adding bioidentical progesterone to the treatment plan may be beneficial. My holistic care includes medication, talking therapies, and lifestyle adjustments. I want to ensure you eat well, exercise, and get adequate sleep. Your mental health is a priority throughout these transitions. Together, we will create a treatment plan that supports your well-being at every stage.
Hormonal Treatments and Holistic Care
I’m a certified Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy prescriber through the Marion Gluck Hormone Academy. This means I can prescribe hormonal treatments to address the root causes of hormonal conditions. My approach to women’s health is holistic and patient-centred. I consider everything from diet and exercise to relaxation techniques like yoga and massage. I also recognise the importance of cultural, religious, and spiritual practices.
I believe that collaboration with other professionals is key to providing the best care. I work closely with obstetricians, midwives, and other healthcare providers. Involving partners and family members in the treatment process can also be beneficial. The support of loved ones significantly aids recovery and overall mental health.
Anxiety & PTSD
When you have experienced anxiety or trauma, it's common to go through a range of emotions. This might include overwhelming fear and anxiety in everyday situations, or feeling numb and detached. You might find yourself feeling constantly on edge or struggling to trust others. I provide a supportive environment where you feel safe to explore your experiences and challenges. I have extensive experience working with individuals facing anxiety and trauma-related conditions, including:
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Panic disorder and panic attacks
- Complex Trauma
- Phobias
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
These conditions can be debilitating, affecting all aspects of life. From personal relationships to professional performance–everything can suffer. My approach is to provide compassionate, comprehensive care that addresses both the immediate symptoms and the underlying causes of anxiety.
I use a mix of therapeutic approaches and holistic methods. I'll draw on principles from psychotherapy, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based therapy. These techniques help you develop effective coping strategies and build resilience. Alternatively, trauma-focused CBT or Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) are proven to help with trauma and PTSD. If I think you would benefit from a specific type of therapy, I can refer you to a psychologist and work collaboratively with them.
Mood Disorders: Depression & Bipolar
Depression and bipolar disorder are mood disorders that can deeply affect your well-being. Often people feel hopeless and unsure about the future when dealing with these conditions, but I am here to offer you hope and support. My approach focuses on addressing your current symptoms and preventing you from becoming unwell in the future. Together, we'll consider which medications and talking therapies might be helpful. We'll also identify lifestyle changes that can help minimise stress. My compassionate approach ensures that you receive the support and care you need every step of the way.
Depression
Depression can manifest in many ways, and I understand that everyone's experience is unique. Depression might look like persistent sadness or a loss of interest in activities. Or physical symptoms like changes in sleep and appetite. My approach to treating depression is holistic, addressing both emotional and physical aspects. By working closely together, we can create a personalised treatment plan that aligns with your goals and values.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder involves mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). This condition requires a thoughtful and comprehensive approach. I aim to understand your unique experience with bipolar and provide information about the symptoms and mood swings. This knowledge helps you recognise patterns and triggers, empowering you to manage your symptoms.
In treating bipolar disorder, I use a combination of medication and therapy. Medications like mood stabilisers and antipsychotics are often essential in managing the condition. I also recommend talking therapies like CBT. Together, these strategies can help you cope with mood changes and improve your overall quality of life.
My approach to treatment
My approach is centred around you, respecting your identity, values, and beliefs. I use clear and transparent language to ensure you understand everything we discuss. I want you to feel fully informed and comfortable making decisions about your treatment plan. Empathy and respect for your journey are at the core of our work together.
I often use the analogy of a tree to explain the complexity of mental health. Imagine a tree with many branches, each representing different factors affecting your well-being:
- Biological: This branch includes lifestyle habits, hormonal health, and treatments like medication. For example, we might consider the benefits of exercise, which can boost the happy hormones in our brains, similar to how medication works. We’ll also look at your sleep, exercise and eating habits to ensure they support your mental health.
- Psychological: This focuses on talking therapies. We will explore which type of therapy might suit you best, based on your preferences.
- Social: This looks at your social connections. We want to make sure you have opportunities to spend quality time with family or friends, start new hobbies, or get involved with your community.
- Cultural and Spiritual: This aspect acknowledges the importance of your cultural background and personal beliefs. If you have religious or spiritual practices, I’ll make sure to integrate these into your treatment plan, recognising their importance in your recovery journey.
- Creative: If you are interested in the arts or creative therapies, we can incorporate them into your treatment. These activities offer a therapeutic alternative that involves social interaction and personal expression.
Together, we will work through each branch of your tree, creating a comprehensive and compassionate treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Your first consultation
During your first consultation, my priority is to make sure you feel relaxed and comfortable, whether we meet face-to-face or online. I will begin our session by asking you about the main symptoms and areas of concern that brought you to seek help. Together, we’ll set goals for your treatment and care. I’ll walk you through the assessment process, expected outcomes, and the next steps. I want to ensure you understand and feel comfortable with the process.
As part of your assessment, I’ll take a detailed history covering biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual aspects. We’ll explore how these areas affect your situation and discuss possible treatments. Additionally, we’ll look at how your mood symptoms might relate to hormonal cycles, depending on your stage of life.
At the end of the consultation, I will explain the findings and propose a treatment plan based on your preferences. We’ll outline the next steps, including follow-up appointments and treatment options. If you consent, I can also involve family, friends, or other professionals for added support.
Personalised treatment plans
I ensure every treatment plan is uniquely tailored to your needs. We may include a combination of the following approaches:
- Psychoeducation: Understanding your condition is crucial. I provide clear, easy-to-understand information about your mental health. This helps you feel more in control and involved in your treatment.
- Talking Therapy: I’m trained in various therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Family Therapy. I can recommend the type of therapy that suits you best and, if you’re open to it, refer you to a psychologist.
- Medication: We will work together to identify the medication that works best for you with the fewest side effects. I’ll closely monitor your response to the medication and we can make adjustments based on your feedback.
- Hormonal Treatments: Hormones can significantly impact mental health, especially during pregnancy, menopause, and pre-menstrual phases. I look at women’s hormonal profiles and can prescribe treatments to address these imbalances.
- Diet: Many people notice significant improvements in their mental health with dietary changes. I often recommend a Mediterranean diet. This might include simple recipes like Greek salads, vegetables, olive oil, fish, and chicken.
- Exercise: Regular exercise is another key component of your treatment. Even simple activities like a daily 20-minute walk can make a noticeable difference. I will help you develop an exercise routine that fits into your life.
- Sleep: Problems with sleep are common and can worsen with alcohol or excessive caffeine. I recommend Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi) to help you achieve better sleep without relying on sedatives. CBTi is highly effective and can significantly improve sleep patterns.
- Creative Therapies: Not everyone finds talking therapies helpful, so we might explore creative hobbies. We can look at activities like drawing, painting, knitting, pottery, dancing, or photography.
Involving Loved Ones
With your consent, I can involve your partners, family members, or loved ones in your treatment. Educating them about your condition is important for support and understanding. Loved ones often provide the first line of support, so it’s important they know how to help effectively. I can facilitate these conversations sensitively and, if needed, refer you for long-term family therapy with a specialist. This ensures your support system is strong and well-informed, which can significantly aid in your recovery.
Medication
I believe medication can play a crucial role in treating mental health conditions when used appropriately. It can be an effective part of a holistic treatment programme when considered alongside talking therapies and lifestyle factors. My approach to medication includes careful monitoring of side effects and physical health to ensure the best possible outcomes for you.
Education & Training
I’m a Consultant General Adult and Perinatal Psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience, registered with the General Medical Council (GMC, UK), the Medical Defence Union, and the Royal College of Psychiatrists (FRCPsych, UK).
Alongside my private practice, I currently serve as an Associate Clinical Director for Specialist Services at South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. I am also the Registrar (Vice-President) of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and an advisor to the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood. I have been honoured with an OBE for my services to perinatal psychiatry and was awarded the President's Medal from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
My dedication to the NHS spans over two decades, with the last 22 years as a Consultant Psychiatrist. My work focuses on the mental health of women during pregnancy and the postnatal period, leading multidisciplinary teams in both in-patient and outpatient settings. I have held significant leadership roles, including Lead Clinician, Clinical Director for Perinatal Psychiatry services, and have been pivotal in the development and accreditation of perinatal services across the UK. From 2016 to 2020, I served as elected Chair of the Perinatal Faculty at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, supporting the expansion of perinatal services and training psychiatrists and other disciplines. I also serve as an expert witness in family courts, particularly in cases involving parental mental illness. From 2020 - 2025, I was elected the Registrar (Vice-President) of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Leading all areas of policy, communications and looking after the membership.
Regarding my education, I completed my medical degree at St Bartholomew's Medical School and have been practising psychiatry since 1995. My postgraduate training included experience at City and Hackney Mental Health Trust and the Maudsley Hospital and Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, where I specialised in perinatal mental health.
Beyond my clinical roles, I am passionate about research, teaching, and service development. I have led numerous research projects and published extensively on topics such as psychotropic medication in pregnancy and clinical outcomes for pregnant and postnatal women. As an educator, I have developed training programmes, including a Multi-professional Simulation Training Package in Perinatal Mental Health, and have supported the development of new perinatal psychiatrists through various national initiatives.
My continuous involvement in research helps me improve patient outcomes and become a better clinician. At the Mother and Baby Unit, I have focused on factors that aid recovery from serious mental health issues, such as the use of mother-infant video guidance. My work consistently aims to enhance the quality of care for women and their families.
Some of my key publications include:
- Postpartum Psychosis: A Proposed Treatment Algorithm in Journal of Psychopharmacology (2024).
- Mother–infant interaction and infant development in women at risk of postpartum psychosis with and without a postpartum relapse in Psychological Medicine (2023).
- Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of psychiatric mother and baby units: quasi-experimental study in The British Journal of Psychiatry (2022).
- The impact of COVID-19 on an inpatient mother and baby unit: a service evaluation in BJPsych Open (2021).
Personal interests
I love spending time with my family and friends, exploring nature, and practising yoga and HIIT training. I have a deep affinity for the arts, especially painting, drawing, and printing. Cooking and travelling are also among my favourite activities, as they allow me to experience new cultures and cuisines.
