Dr Lara Akers-Douglas

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Chartered Clinical Psychologist

About me

Hello and welcome. I’m Dr Lara Akers-Douglas, a Clinical Psychologist based in Southampton and on the Isle of Wight, also offering online sessions. I specialise in trauma and provide evidence-based psychological therapy to support healing after difficult life events. Alongside trauma work, I support people with many of life’s challenges — such as anxiety, low mood, stress, OCD, burnout, self-esteem, difficulties in relationships, loss, and times of transition. My approach is collaborative and supportive, helping clients develop insight, resilience, and confidence while improving their mental health and overall wellbeing.
I've received extensive training in trauma-focused therapies (EMDR, CBT, ACT) and had the privilege of working with a diverse range of people, including those who've experienced trauma from childhood abuse, combat, domestic violence, front-line roles, and pre/postnatal events. I've worked in various settings, privately and publicly, in the UK and abroad.
Healing from trauma is a highly individualized process, so I tailor therapy to meet each client's unique needs. Clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and develop coping strategies that empower them to move forward with strength and confidence.

Training, qualifications & experience

I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a Masters of Arts in Psychology and have also undergone extensive training in trauma informed therapies including EMDR, CBT and ACT. Over the last 17 years I have worked in private and public health care settings both in the UK and overseas, working with individuals who have experienced a wide range of traumatic events, including:

  • Childhood abuse
  • Combat-related
  • Domestic harm
  • Front line work
  • Pre and post natal trauma 
  • and everything in between. 

Healing from trauma is a highly individualized process, so I tailor interventions to meet each client's unique needs. Clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and develop coping strategies that empower them to move forward with strength and confidence.

Member organisations

Registered / Accredited

Registered / Accredited

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.

BPS
British Psychological Society (BPS)

British Psychological Society

HCPC
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

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

Therapies offered

Fees

£120.00 per session

Health Insurance/EAP

  • Aviva
  • BUPA
  • WPA
  • Vitality

When I work

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

I work between 9:00am - 2:30pm, Monday to Thursday. 

Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31

Southampton, Hampshire, SO14

Type of session

In person
Online

Types of client

Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)
Organisations
Employee Assistance Programme

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

Bilateral Base
Microsoft Teams
Google Meet
Zoom

Social

Dr Lara Akers-Douglas
Dr Lara Akers-Douglas