About Gemma
Gemma Gilewski, BSc(Hons), MSc, PGCert, PGDipCBT, BABCP
BScHons Psychology (University of Hertfordshire)
MSc Forensic Mental Health (University of Birmingham)
PGCert Evidenced Based Psychological Treatment (University of Reading)
PGDip Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (Royal Holloway University London)
BABCP Accredited by the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies
Hi! My name is Gemma and I am a qualified and accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). I have been working in the field of mental health within the NHS for over ten years.
My close connections at a young age with mental health, means that I have been interested in the human mind and peoples experiences for many years before deciding to be a therapist, with varying roles in mental health services.
On deciding to specialise in therapy and particularly CBT, I trained to be a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner, specializing in groups and guided-self-help (based on CBT principles). Following this, I trained as a High Intensity CBT Therapist for IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). Here, I had experience in working with adults with a wide range of complex difficulties including depression and various anxiety presentations. It was within this role, I was able to link my family experience of long-term conditions with my chosen therapy, becoming the lead therapist for Long Term Conditions, with my particular interest in using CBT in the management of COPD and Diabetes.
I started the CBT Practice in Swansea five years ago, after moving from London. I decided to concentrate on this solely, following my work as a CBT Therapist within Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and take my own advice of gaining a better work-life-balance. Alongside my current private practice, I previously worked for the University of Cardiff as a lecturer, tutor and supervisor on the CBT Post Graduate Certificate and Diploma Courses as well as a casual Lecturer in CBT at the University of South Wales. This allowed me to be involved in the teaching and support of mental health professionals interested in working with CBT and progressing to become the next generation of CBT therapists. This also translated into my role in communications as an elected committee member of the South and West Wales BABCP Branch. I am also an editorial board member of the Journal of Psychology and Behavioural Therapy.
My approach is informal, friendly and relaxed and I offer a safe and compassionate space to explore and think about helpful ways of change together. I work with both young people and with adults.
