Dr Kelly Watkins

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BSc Hons, MSc, PG Dip, PgD, DPsych. BABCP Accred & HCPC Reg

About me

I am a Doctor of Forensic Psychology, a BABCP-accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and a HCPC-registered Practitioner Psychologist. 

With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, HM Prison and Probation Service, private healthcare, community mental health, and secure hospitals, I have supported individuals across a range of complex presentations and life experiences. Alongside clinical practice, I lecture and supervise at the University of Hertfordshire, as well as guest lecturing at a number of UK universities.

I provide expert therapy with warmth, understanding and empathy, within a non-judgemental space. Therapy is tailored to you, collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based. I offer therapy for a range of difficulties, including low-self esteem, OCD, anxiety, low mood/depression, stress, trauma, and PTSD. My approach is based on current evidence in the field and I constantly work to update my knowledge base to ensure that I am providing the best practice for all of my clients. My main therapies are: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Schema Informed Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). For couple work I mainly use Behavioural Couples Therapy. 

My aim is to support you and develop the skills you need to navigate life with greater psychological flexibility, confidence, and emotional clarity.

What to Expect
Step 1 – 15 minute Initial Conversation (No Fee)
A strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for effective therapy. In this free initial conversation, we’ll briefly discuss your current situation and determine whether my expertise is the right fit for your needs. If I believe another clinician may be more suitable, I will guide you toward appropriate alternatives.

Step 2 – Initial Session
In our first full session (approximately 50 minutes), we’ll explore your goals and background in more depth. Whether you're feeling unsure of where to begin or already have a clear focus, I tailor the session to meet you where you are. 

Step 3 – Psychological Therapy
Therapy is an active, collaborative process. Drawing on a range of evidence-based models, I adapt the approach to suit your specific needs and goals. We’ll regularly review progress together and work flexibly with any constraints to ensure that therapy remains accessible and effective.

Location & Accessibility
I offer therapy both face to face in Upminster, Essex, and online via secure video calls. My practice is inclusive, affirming, and tailored to meet the needs of diverse clients from all backgrounds.

Fees
Session fees are listed at the bottom of this page. Concession rates may be available depending on individual circumstances, please don’t hesitate to enquire.

I am deeply passionate about helping individuals make meaningful changes and reconnect with the life they want to lead. I also actively contribute to the ongoing work of reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.

If you're considering therapy, I invite you to get in touch for an initial conversation. I’ll be happy to talk through how I can help and support you in taking the next step forward.

Training, qualifications & experience

Doctor of Forensic Psychology (DPsych) at Nottingham Trent University 

Practitioner programme in Forensic Psychology at Cardiff Metropolitan University

PG Dip in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at University of Hertfordshire

MSc in Forensic Psychology at London Metropolitan University

BSc Hons 2:1 in Psychology and Criminology at Nottingham Trent University

My other training includes:

Schema Training

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)  

OCN Level 2 Mentoring Skills

BPS Supervision Skills

Management of Violence and Aggression

CBT for Couples

Introduction to knowledge and understanding framework (KUF): Introduction to personality disorder

Clinical Risk Assessment and Management

Suicide Intervention (ASIST) Fire Safety

START Assessment

Motivational Interviewing

Mi Map

Hearing Voices

Mindfulness

Safeguarding Young People and Adults at Risk

Solution focused brief therapy

The Historical Clinical Risk Management-20, Version 3

Structured Assessment of Protective Factors for violence risk

Trauma Focused CBT

Schema focused CBT

IPDE International Personality Disorder Examination

Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised,  Second Edition

Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule - Second Edition (ADOS-2)

Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule Second Edition (ADOS-2)

Member organisations

BABCP
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)

The BABCP is the lead organisation for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in the UK. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the practice, theory or development of CBT. BABCP also provides accreditation for CBT therapists. BABCP accredited members adhere to the Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics in the Practice of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies, and are willing to be scrutinised in this adherence as required.

Accredited register membership

British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies
Accredited Register Scheme

The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.

British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies

Areas of counselling I deal with

Therapies offered

Fees

£90.00 - £120.00

Concessions offered for

  • Low income
  • Keyworkers
  • OAPs
  • Students
  • Trainee counsellors
  • Unemployed
  • Refugees

Health Insurance/EAP

  • WPA

Additional information

Concessions are offered on a case-by-case basis. I have a team of associates whose work I closely supervise, who can provide therapy for a reduced fee of £90.

Group Programmes price available on request.

When I work

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Early morning
Morning
Early afternoon
Late afternoon
Evening

Type of session

In person
Online
Phone

Types of client

Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)
Groups
Organisations

Key details

DBS check

In England and Wales, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly known as CRB) carry out criminal records checks for individuals working with vulnerable groups, such as children. To find out more, visit gov.uk , or contact this professional directly

Online platforms

Microsoft Teams
Zoom

Supervision

In person
Online
Phone

I offer CBT supervision to professionals at every level of their CBT journey.

View supervision profile

Social

Dr Kelly Watkins
Dr Kelly Watkins