Research With a PhD in Psychology by research, supervised by Prof Schyns at The University of Glasgow, I have been involved in psychology research for over 20 years, publishing widely. Currently, I work part time as a Lecturer in Applied Psychology at Glasgow Caledonian University contributing to their HCPC accredited, doctoral training programs in Counselling Psychology, Sport & Exercise Psychology & Health Psychology. I also hold an honorary Research Affiliate post at the University of Glasgow, Institute of Neuroscience & Psychology & I am an Honorary Senior Research Fellow at the University of Suffolk. I am very passionate about improving psychological support for people (like myself) living with lifelong health conditions. My current research interests include the psychological impact of living with a congenital heart condition, the impact of hospital gowns on patient well-being & developing a measure of Psychological Safety in collaboration with Dr Nicola Cogan, Strathclyde University & international stakeholders including Prof Stephen Porges (founder of The Polyvagal Theory). Just get in touch if you would like more information about this work or check out my university profile, publications & presentations. You can find out more about our measure of Psychological Safety here.
Workplace Webinars I develop & deliver webinars & CPD training through The University of Strathclyde with Dr Nicola Cogan, Consultant Clinical Psychologist / Senior Lecturer. With a background in research, clinical practice & teaching we offer courses, tailored to staff across a range of industries who wish to improve mental health in the workplace. Since 2020, we have delivered over 50 bespoke webinars on Introductory Trauma Awareness Training,Working from home during Covid-19, Preventing Burnout & Psychologically Informed Medicine for organisations including ALSEF, UNISON, Scottish Union Learning, The Scottish Government, The Fire Brigade, Occupational Therapists & allied HCPs, The ambulance service & first responders & NHS Fife. This training can be delivered online or face-to-face or we can offer a blended approach. We can also offer a staged approach comprising shorter ‘taster sessions’ followed by more in-depth training. If you are an organisation with an interest, please get in touch to discuss further.
Psychologically Informed Medicine I am passionate about promoting what I've termed Psychologically Informed Medicine to improve well-being & recovery. Grounded in lifelong personal experience, this permeates my teaching, research & advocacy work. I publish widely & present to a variety of audiences including health professionals, academics, patient groups, guest lectures for university students & the third sector engaging key stake holders & the media (see publications & presentations). Since submitting a successful petition to the Scottish Government back in 2012 asking for healthcare standards for people living with congenital heart conditions, I have been sitting voluntarily on numerous health committees advocating for this population. I am also proud to be part of the international group developing iSUPPORT: International collaborative rights-based standards to SUpport Paediatric Patients during clinical prOcedures by Reducing harm & establishing Trust. I have also been involved in consultancy work with Resuscitation Council UK (RESUS-UK). Please get in touch, to make an inquiry, if you have an interest in this work.