Qualifications and Experience

Dr Rae Hughes, DClinPsy, PGDip, BSc (Hons)
HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist

Clinical Psychology Training

I completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Hull, alongside a First Class Honours degree in Psychology.

Clinical Psychologists are trained to understand and support people with a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. This includes learning about how people think, feel and behave, and how life experiences can impact mental health.

During my doctoral training, I developed skills in a range of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and systemic therapy (which looks at relationships and family dynamics). I also trained in areas such as brain functioning (neuropsychology), child development, and attachment (how early relationships shape emotional wellbeing).

Clinical Experience

I have worked in mental health since 2013, supporting children, young people, adults and families in a range of settings.

Much of my experience has been working with children and adolescents, including in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), where I held senior roles. I have supported looked after children, young people involved in care proceedings, and families dealing with complex or high levels of need.

I also have extensive experience working with adults, including those with learning disabilities, autism and complex mental health difficulties, in both community and residential settings.

How I Work

My work focuses on helping people understand their difficulties and find ways forward through assessment and therapy.

This includes:

Getting a clear understanding of your strengths, challenges and needs through psychological assessment
Working together to build a shared understanding of what might be contributing to your difficulties (sometimes called a “formulation”)
Offering therapy that is tailored to you, using approaches such as CBT and systemic therapy
Supporting children, young people and families with emotional, behavioural and relationship difficulties
Working with parents and caregivers to better understand and support their child

Continued Professional Development

I regularly update my skills and knowledge to make sure I am offering the best possible support. My additional training includes:

DBT Skills Training (British Isles DBT Training)
Postgraduate Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with Clinical Practice
Clinical supervision training
Critical Incident Stress Debriefing
Quality Improvement and Service Development

Research & Publications

I have contributed to research exploring how people adjust following brain injury and psychological trauma. My work has been published in academic journals, including Brain Injury.

My research interests include: