Dr Joanna Astill
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This professional is available for new clients.
This professional is available for new clients.
About me
Hello, my name is Joanna and I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I have previously worked for many years in the NHS and now work solely in private practice. I specialise in assessment and therapy for adults who are struggling with mental health difficulties such as post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, phobias and also with issues such as relationship difficulties both past and present.
I can support people in achieving their goals across a whole range of areas including a focus on wellbeing and personal development, as well as treatment for more severe difficulties which may be significantly limiting a persons ability to live their life the way they want to.
You may not be entirely clear on what you want but just have a feeling that things don't feel right and you have decided that you want to understand what, why and how to refocus and live the life you feel is best for you. Or perhaps you are very aware of a struggle with difficulties, which may already be formally diagnosed by another professional, and you want to regain some control instead of feeling that these issues take over. Either way, I am used to helping people by meeting them wherever they are in their journey and working together to achieve their goals.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, registered with the Health & Care Professions Council and the British Psychological Society, of which I am an Associate Fellow. This means that I have met all regulations to be licensed as a practising Clinical Psychologist, and continue my professional development as is required.
With over 20 years experience, my specialism is in mental health. I am a big believer that we all bring a rich complexity of experience, biology and culture to the table, which is why I use an integrative approach to therapy; drawing on the most applicable models and interventions for each individual.
I understand that it can feel daunting and confusing to embark on the journey of psychological therapy, initially raising more questions than answers. Please do not let this put you off; therapy can be challenging but also very rewarding. I am happy to discuss any concerns or anxieties you might have and if I am not the right person to help you, then I will do my best to recommend someone who might be able to support you.
Training, qualifications & experience
Dr. Joanna Astill CPsychol., AFBPsS., ClinPsyD., PGCert., BSc (Hons.)
I completed my doctorate and qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2008. Before that I obtained my BSc (Hons.) degree in Psychology (First Class) in 2000, a Postgraduate Certificate in Integrated Mental Health in 2004 and Certificate in Counselling Skills in 2005. Since 1999 I have worked in various organisations, including charities and the NHS, with people of all ages experiencing mental health difficulties.
Since qualifying in 2008 I have worked in adult mental health services in the NHS, specialising in working with people aged 17 and over who are experiencing complex mental health issues. Over this time I have continued my professional development and trained in specific models which I have found fit with my preference of working and are evidence based as effective interventions.
My special interests, in which I have extended my learning and training include:
- Internal Family Systems Therapy
- Intensive Short Term Dynamic Therapy/Experiential Short Term Dynamic Therapy (for which I have attended numerous workshops and had specialist supervision)
- Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I have completed all three levels of training for EMDR
- Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy
- Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy
- Special interest in complex trauma and dissociative disorders
I am also developing a niche area of specialism in women's mental health during the perimenopause & menopause.
I use an integrative approach as I believe that there is no 'one size fits all' and tailor therapy according to the person I am working with.
I am heavily influenced by dynamic therapy, attachment theory, cognitive-analytic therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy and associated models including Compassion Focused therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I also use the Adaptive Information Processing Model (EMDR).
Please be aware that I am not able to respond to urgent requests or to provide the level of support required for urgent crisis intervention. If you are feeling at risk and need to speak to someone soon, please seek extra support from your GP, Mental Health Helplines such as the Samaritans (116 123) or go to the NHS website and search for your local NHS urgent mental health helpline number.
In an emergency call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department.
Member organisations
Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.
The HCPC are an independent, UK-wide health regulator. They set standards of professional training, performance and conduct for 16 professions.
They keep a register of health professionals who meet their standards, and they take action if registered health professionals fall below those standards. They were created by a piece of legislation called the Health Professions Order 2001.
Registration means that a health professional meets national standards for their professional training, performance and conduct.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Other areas of counselling I deal with
Menopausal and perimenopause mental health
Issues around self-identity, stress and midlife changes
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Loss and Adjustment Disorder
Therapies offered
Photos & videos
Fees
£100.00 per session
Health Insurance/EAP
Additional information
Please feel free to email me with your enquiry, or to telephone me for an initial discussion. I think it is important to have this initial discussion as it can help us to decide whether I am the right person to support you, if you feel comfortable with me, or if I can recommend anyone else who may be more appropriate. These initial telephone calls are around 20 minutes long and free of charge.
Following this the fees are:
Initial consultation assessment (1hr): £100.00
Psychological Therapy (55mins): £100.00
Please contact me for fees for letters, bespoke reports and specialist assessments. Information about this can also be found in the T&C's, please let me know if you would like me to send you a copy of these or contact me for further information.
I am also registered with AXA PPP Healthcare, AVIVA, WPA, Vitality and Cigna Insurance Companies.
When I work
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Please get in touch to enquire about days/times available as I see clients for both short & long term therapy so my availability changes frequently. I do not work in the evenings or weekend
Further information
Please email me and I can send you a copy of my Information Leaflet, Terms and Conditions and an example copy of a therapy contract.
The service is based in the centre of Hinckley, Leicestershire, with good access from major routes across the Midlands including bus and train routes. Parking is available in a car park opposite the building, which is payable between the hours of 8am-3pm at 60p per hour.
The room is wheelchair accessible.
