CBT Practice

Hi, I’m Gemma, a qualified Cognitive Behaviour Therapist, accredited with the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP).  With over ten years of experience working in the field of mental health within the NHS, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and the experiences of individuals facing mental health challenges.  My passion for helping others and my personal connection to mental health have been the driving force behind my career in therapy.  My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, education and empowerment and I believe in creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions and behaviours. 

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I have had extensive training as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner, where I was able to hone my skills in group therapy and guided self-help, based on CBT principles.  This was furthered in my training as a High Intensity CBT Therapist.  It was here that I was able to gain valuable experience in providing support to adults facing a diverse range of complex challenges, including depression and a range of anxiety presentations. This role allowed me to connect my personal background of dealing with long-term conditions, with my chosen therapeutic approach and as a result, I took on the responsibility of being the lead therapist for Long Term Conditions, focusing specifically on utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to effectively manage conditions like COPD and Diabetes

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Just over seven years ago, I embarked on my journey in developing the CBT Practice in Swansea, having relocated from London. Recognizing the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, I made the conscious decision to dedicate myself entirely to private practice. This choice came after my experience as a CBT Therapist in specialized Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), where I witnessed first-hand the transformative power of CBT with children, young people and their families. 

 

I have previously held positions at the University of Cardiff where I served as a lecturer, tutor, and supervisor for the CBT Post Graduate Certificate and Diploma Courses, in addition to being a casual Lecturer in CBT at the University of South Wales. These roles allowed me to actively participate in the education and guidance of mental health professionals wishing to specializing in CBT.  Furthermore, I was previously an elected committee member of the South and West Wales BABCP Branch. This role enabled me to contribute to the organization's initiatives and activities aimed at promoting CBT practices and supporting professionals in South and West Wales.  Additionally, I have taken on the responsibility of being an editorial board member of the Journal of Psychology and Behavioral Therapy, where I am able to contribute to the academic discourse and publication of research in the field, allowing me to stay abreast of the latest developments.

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At the CBT Practice, I firmly believe that the key to successful therapy lies in establishing a foundation of trust and respect. This is why I strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where clients can freely express themselves and delve into any challenges that they may be experiencing. Whether it's children, young individuals or adults seeking therapy, I am dedicated to providing the same level of care, empathy, and understanding that each person deserves. By fostering an informal and friendly environment, I aim to make the therapeutic journey as comfortable and beneficial as possible for all.