Antrim Psychological Services

Kevin McFaul BSc MSc PgDip CBT (BABCP Accredited)

I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, trained in providing psychological assessments and interventions to children, adolescents and adults. I have over 14 years experience in working within mental health services, supporting clients with a range of mental health conditions and emotional difficulties

Treatment Focus

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence based intervention aimed at supporting clients to gain a better understanding of their emotional, cognitive and behavioural responses to certain life events. CBT is a short-term, goal-focused psychotherapy. It takes a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving and achieving therapeutic goals. CBT is designed to explore and change patterns of thinking and behaviour that maintain difficulties and to alleviate psychological distress.

I have also completed professional training in Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Brief Solution-Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). Although my main treatment focus is CBT, I use an integrative and adaptive approach drawing on various therapeutic modalities.

I have a keen interest in the psychological and behavioural management of tics and Tourette's Syndrome. I am a registered Behavioural Therapist with Tourette's Action and have completed training through the Behavioural Therapy for Tics Institute (BTTI).

Aimee McIvor BSc MSc PgDip CBT (BABCP Accredited)

Having worked with children and families for 12 years, I have gained a lot of experience in supporting individuals through challenging and uncertain times. For the past 6 years I have worked in the health service, offering evidence based interventions to individuals with a range of experiences including, OCD, depression, general anxiety, panic, phobias, social anxiety and low self-esteem.

One of the most important aspects of CBT is its use of a collaborative relationship, within which we will work together to identify and challenge the thoughts that have brought you to therapy. By utilising this approach, you gain confidence and build upon your resilience, helping equip you with the skills to continue working towards your goals and face future stressors

Although my main treatment focus is CBT, I draw upon my skills and experience to offer an integrated approach which is tailored to your needs.

Dr Alannah McGurgan BSc MSc PgDip DClinPsych CPsychol

I am a Specialist Clinical Psychologist registered with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I hold Chartered membership with the BPS. I have over 8 years experience working within mental health services across adult mental health, primary care, CAMHS, paediatric liaison, intellectual disability and autism services in a variety of settings

I am trained in psychological assessments and therapeutic intervention with children, adolescents and adults and have delivered interventions with individuals, groups, parents/carers and staff teams. I work using a compassionate, person-centred approach. I completed ADOS training as part of the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Trinity College Dublin. I have research publications within the area of child health psychology. I have special interests in attachment, trauma, health and mind-body connections.

Rachel Ferguson BSc MSc

I am a Mental Health Nurse, with just under 10 years experience working in Mental Health Services. I have gained in-depth experience by working in various specialist mental health teams within the NHS.

I provide psychological assessments and evidence interventions for children, adolescents and families. I have completed various professional training courses and attend regular clinical supervision in order to refine my skills and keep my knowledge base up to date. As well as my core Mental Health Nursing training, I have also completed an undergraduate Psychology degree and Masters in Applied Psychology. This has afforded me the opportunity to gain experience in a variety of therapeutic modalities.

Over the years I have developed a compassionate, person-centered approach to working with clients and their families. In providing psychological support, I place a lot of emphasis on developing a strong therapeutic relationship, based on shared values, goals and openness.

My main therapeutic approach draws on theories and techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. However I integrate other therapeutic approaches including Compassion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Brief Solution-Focused Therapy. I have a keen interest in supporting adolescent clients who are struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety and overwhelming emotions.

Angela Seaton BA MSW/Dip SW PG Cert

I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a professional qualification in Social Work at Master's level. I have obtained a postgraduate certificate in cognitive behavioural practice and I am currently studying for a postgraduate qualification in systemic practice. I have over 20 years of professional experience working with children, adults and families including behavioural strategies and support with emotional health and well-being. This includes experience as a mental health practitioner across early intervention and specialist services.

I offer an integrative approach drawing on the techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and Systemic Practice. I have particular interest in supporting children and adolescents with emotional regulation, mood issues and anxiety management. I also offer a relational approach which considers family and systemic factors in a therapeutic context. My method of working is person centred and goal oriented, including play-based interventions for children

Ailish McVeigh BSc Nutrition and Dietetic

I am a registered Dietitian with the HCPC and a member of the British Dietetic Association and the BDA Mental health and Paediatric Specialist groups. I have over 10years experience in Dietetics working in a range of specialities including Autism Spectrum Disorder, weight management, allergies and working with clients on food related issue linked to their mental health and anxiety. I am skilled in the principles of behaviour change and take a patient-centred approach. I am passionate about educating and promoting good health and wellbeing through nutrition.

Food is medicine and is a fundamental building block to good mental and physical health. When we don’t eat enough nutrient rich foods, our bodies may lack vital nutrients which may affect our energy, mood, and brain function. Working with Antrim Psychological Services, I can provide an important resource of nutritional knowledge, ensuring an holistic and collaborative approach with you and your therapist in order to optimise your treatment

Therapies & Assessments

CBT

Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at different stages in our lives. Psychological therapies such as CBT help clients to gain a better understanding of the influences and life events that have left them vulnerable to experience these emotions. Therapy aims to empower clients to manage more difficult times in their lives by making key changes in thinking and behaviour. CBT focuses on remaining well, by learning to spot negative cycles, and develop more positive coping mechanisms.

CBT is offered to clients who are experiencing any of the following difficulties:

Low Mood / Depression

Social Anxiety

Low Self-Esteem

Generalised Anxiety and Worry

Body Image concerns

Adjustment Difficulties

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Panic Attacks

Phobias

Health Anxiety

Autism Assessments

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder which can affect social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication and behaviour. Signs of Autism typically present before the age of 3 and can include developmental delay, poor eye contact, repetitive behaviours and difficulties with emotional recognition and regulation.

The assessment process is comprised by multiple components

a full developmental history
report from school / GP
standardised screening measures
completion of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)
Consultation with our multidisciplinary team
a comprehensive feedback session
For more information on Autism assessments and to book a consultation, please request a callback from Grace Murphy (ADOS referral Coordinator).

CBIT & CBT for Tics & Tourette's Syndrome

Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT) encompasses behavioural principles and psychological support alongside psychoeduation and family support. This intervention helps clients to reduce the frequency and intensity of motor and vocal tics, as well as addressing the psychological and emotional factors which may contribute to tics. This intervention involves Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT), which is also effective in managing repetitive behaviours such as hair pulling and skin picking.

Having Tics or Tourette's Syndrome can be an experience that impacts on mood, self-esteem and functioning. CBT is adapted to address the key psychological impacts of this disorder. Common issues may be social anxiety, avoidance behaviours and negative beliefs about health. CBT, combined with CBIT is a comprehensive approach to addressing the impact of Tics and to help clients improve their overall functioning and mental health.