Allison Ridley

MA, Hons.(Psychology); MPhil (Clinical Psychology); CPsychol; CAT Practitioner; EMDR trained

I am dual trained, having trained as a clinical psychologist, registered with HCPC, and as a group analytic psychotherapist.  In addition, I completed specialist post qualification training in CAT (Cognitive Analytic Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing). 

I worked in the NHS as a consultant psychologist, specialising in the field of Adult Mental Health and gaining extensive experience in tackling a range of difficulties, including treating the sequalae of trauma.  I am grateful to have learned so much from the clients and colleagues I have worked with.  After 30 years of working in the NHS I moved into independent practice.

Below is a little information regarding the training I have undertaken along with an indication of my personal ethos or style.

Clinical psychology training involved working with individuals across the lifespan, utilising a range of psychological approaches.  This included a focus on CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy).  CBT therapy is a treatment which focuses on how your thoughts, beliefs and attitudes are interconnected and affect your feelings and behaviour, and vice versa. It is considered helpful for a range of conditions such as OCD or health anxiety.

Alongside working as a clinical psychologist, I spent 7 years training as a group analytic psychotherapist.  Group analytic psychotherapy integrates psychoanalytical and social psychological perspectives, recognising that we exist within the context of groups, whether family or other groups, including the wider community.  Training focused on therapy in both individual and group settings - this approach can be helpful in both.

Following qualification, I also completed specialist training in CAT (Cognitive Analytic Therapy) & and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing).  CAT is an integrative therapy, including integrating CBT and psychoanalytic approaches. EMDR is a therapy which was developed to help people deal with the symptoms and emotional distress which are associated with traumatic or disturbing life experiences. 

I consider that my training and experience allow me to adopt and integrate different approaches to suit the needs of each individual.   I believe the therapeutic relationship is an essential element of therapy.   I regard this as creating a safe space where I and the client can work collaboratively and with compassion to gain an understanding of matters – focusing on strengths as well as difficulties – and consider change or growth.

Registrations and Memberships

Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)                                                                              

Association of Cognitive Analytic Therapy (ACAT)       

EMDR UK