Dr Gillian Heath
I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist from University College London in 2004 and as a Schema Therapist from the New York Institute of Schema Therapy in 2010. I have worked as a therapist, supervisor and team leader in NHS and private services for adults with psychological problems including anxiety, eating disorders, depression and personality disorders. In 2010, I set up in independent practice, as part of Become Psychology. I also co-run an accredited Schema Therapy training programme (STA Training) and offer specialist supervision in this model.
Philosophy
In coming for therapy, people make a decision to face problems that have often bothered them deeply and for some time. They have usually thought long and hard about the negative patterns that hold them back, and done their level best to change. However, sometimes the perspective we use to try and change is heavily coloured by our past experiences and expectations, making it hard to move forward. My passion is to take a different stance, learn from you about the origins, nature and impact of the problem on your life and work with you as a team to unblock the stuck pattern. This involves a ‘meeting of minds’ in getting to grips with an issue resulting in an emotional connection which often has a healing effect in itself.
Approach
I use Schema Therapy, Mindfulness and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in my work with clients.
Schema Therapy is an innovative therapy for a wide range of emotional problems such as relationship issues, chronic depression, eating disorders, anxiety and personality difficulties. The therapy understands our ‘stuck patterns’ in terms of schemas or modes which reflect how we view ourselves, our relationships and our lives more broadly. I was originally drawn to the model because it allows for an emotionally healing experience, has a clear, transparent structure and provides effective strategies for deep and sustained change.
I find that Mindfulness is a powerful tool for clients who want to feel more engaged and connected with their experiences but find that they are overwhelmed by day-to-day stresses and worries. Mindfulness provides a way of relating to yourself and the world with compassion and acceptance which I have found invaluable both professionally and personally.
I also use a range of techniques and strategies from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to help clients who want to focus their efforts on changing a specific emotional problem or unwanted behaviour, often within a relatively short space of time.
Qualifications
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, 2004: University College London
Accredited Advanced Level Schema Therapist & Trainer, 2010: International Society of Schema Therapy
Associate Fellow of The British Psychological Society