Dr Claire Clifford

Hi! I’m Claire and I’m a Counselling Psychologist.

What first drew me to psychology was a curiosity about people and how our experiences shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us.

I studied Psychology at the University of Stirling, followed by an MSc in Health Psychology at the University of St Andrews, and a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology at Glasgow Caledonian University.

Throughout my training, I’ve worked across NHS services, GP practices, charities, and high education, supporting individuals with a wide range of psychological difficulties and life experiences.

My interest in psychology has also been shaped by personal experiences of illness and caring for others. These experiences have influenced how I understand the relationship between our physical and mental health, our circumstances and the challenges we encounter throughout life.

I would describe my approach as warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I appreciate starting therapy can feel daunting, particularly if you are meeting a psychologist for the first time and aren’t sure where to begin. My hope is that I can help you to feel comfortable enough to be yourself and talk openly about whatever has brought you here.

When we first meet, we’ll take some time to get to know each other. I’ll want to understand what’s been happening for you and what you’d like to get from therapy. I tend to work conversationally, asking questions, sharing observations, inviting your thoughts, and checking in about our progress along the way.

I think it is important that you understand what we’re doing and why. My practice is informed by psychological research and professional guidance, but I recognise that what works well for one person may not be right for another.

Sometimes therapy involves finding practical ways to manage difficulties. Other times, we might spend more time exploring past experiences or understanding patterns that have developed over time. Often, we’ll do a bit of both. The important thing is that we make those decisions together, based on what you need from our work.

I work from a pluralistic perspective, which means I don’t assume that one type of therapy will suit everyone. Instead, I draw on different approaches depending on what we’re working towards together. These include person-centred therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, emotion focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion focused therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.

I have a particular interest in working with people who have experienced trauma, those living with chronic health conditions or pain, and people navigating significant life changes or periods of adjustment.

Alongside these interests, I work with a broad range of psychological difficulties, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and challenges associated with neurodiversity.

I recognise that what brings someone to therapy isn’t always the whole picture. Part of our work may involve understanding how your difficulties have developed and how they relate to what’s happening in your life, rather than focusing only on individual symptoms.

Outside of work, I enjoy keeping active through strength training, spinning, and walking. I love getting outdoors, especially somewhere with beautiful scenery and a good place to stop for coffee.

I also love reading, film, and games. Particularly anything involving fantasy or horror. I have a habit of telling myself, “just one more chapter” or “just one more quest” and then wondering where the evening has gone!

Above all, I value spending time with my family, friends, and my dog. They keep me grounded when life gets noisy!