I’m Lisa, a counselling psychologist who has brought together knowledge from my training and work experience to help people who have experienced abuse, trauma, neglect and racial discrimination. Especially those who are used to prioritising others, feeling numb, ‘getting on with it’, overwork and are tired of being ‘the strong one’. I’ve listened to and supported them in understanding their feelings, improving self-belief, feeling less anxious, improving their mood, finding ways to relax, and asserting their own needs.

My therapeutic approach is pluralistic, which means I respect the diversity of experiences and viewpoints and don’t believe there is one single solution for everyone. Instead, I value your contributions and preferences, recognising your uniqueness and finding what works for you. I seek to collaborate in therapy, combining my psychological expertise with your perspectives. 

My background

I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health sector. I’ve worked as a support worker, supporting individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties both in the community and in hospital. I’m an experienced therapist, and for the last 9 years have provided both individual and group therapy across the third sector, NHS, private, and independent services. This has followed my training in pluralistic counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and the completion of my doctorate in counselling psychology. I've completed a range of CPD courses, including a focus on dissociation and complex trauma. My research has focused on Armed Forces veterans and the impact of trauma. 

I’ve also held leadership roles, including team leader for a trauma support service and management positions in the retail sector, giving me extensive experience in supervising teams, coordinating services, and promoting staff wellbeing and development.

I was born and raised in Scotland and identify as Scottish-Chinese and part of the East and Southeast Asian community (ESEA). I was raised by the most lovely Scottish parents, but have experienced being ‘in-between’ cultures and navigating complexity. I have worked with people from ESEA community who have experienced racial discrimination, particularly following the global pandemic in 2020.  I’ve also worked with people wishing to explore differences in their identity, such as race, ethnicity, and neurodivergent experiences. 

When not working, I enjoy walking, photography, reading, going to the gym, watching movies, listening to music (from heavy metal to pop), and spending time with family and friends.