
Dr. Charlotte Whiteley
Chartered Counselling Psychologist
Therapeutic Approach
I am trained and experienced in working from a diverse range of therapeutic models, or 'types of therapy'. But underpinning these approaches is my relational, client-centered, compassionate and non-judgmental attitude. I prioritise the therapeutic relationship and think of this as central to both short and long term therapy.
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In addition to paying close attention to relationships, I draw on mindfulness, compassion-focused and cognitive behavioural therapeutic interventions as well as existential and systemic theory. These evidenced-based models enhance my understanding of human distress and compliment the emphasis I place on how we all uniquely experience our difficulties.
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In addition to the therapeutic models from which I work, I also pay close attention to relationship patterns, social groups, relgious and cultural backgrounds, gender and gender diversity, sexuality and (dis)ability. The experience of difference, diversity and marginalization can have a profound impact on how we feel about ourselves and are particular areas of interest to me.
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I have practiced mindfulness meditation for the past twenty years and I often draw on my experience and knowledge of buddhism and mindfulness to inform my practices.
Training and Experience
I have worked in a number of settings with a diverse range of clients and difficulties. My early experiences were gained from working with individuals in extreme distress experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings. I then worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults who had experienced traumas.
Within the NHS, I have worked in an anxiety disorder residential unit with adults diagnosed with various anxiety disorders including obsessive compulsive disorder, body dysmorphia, health and social anxiety. I have also worked in a mood disorder service supporting people with depression and other mood related difficulties. I worked in a specialist NHS eating disorder service with both inpatients and outpatients and I currently work at the Tavistock and Portman Gender Identity Clinic with adults experiencing gender incongruence.
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Qualifications
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Doctorate in Counselling Psychology gained from University of Surrey (Dpsych)
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Psychology undergraduate degree gained from City University London (BSc)
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Post graduate diploma in systemic family and relationship therapy gained from Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust
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Certificate in Enhanced Cognitive Behvioural Therapy for Eating Disorders
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Training as a Gender, Sexual and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) practitioner with Pink Therapy
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Publications, conferences and teaching
Publications
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Whiteley, C. (2019) Inviting in painful emotions, Counselling Directory​
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Whiteley, C. (2019) Some Ideas to Manage Loneliness, Counselling Directory
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Whiteley, C. (2019) Supporting Invisible Parents, The Psychologist, 32, 5.
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Conferences and presentations
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Whiteley, C. (2018) Gender Identity and Eating Disorders. St Anns Eating Disorder Service, Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust, United Kingdom. December 2018.
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Teaching
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Lecturer at City University, counselling psychology doctorate (2020 - current)
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Visiting lecturer in Play Therapy on doctorate in counselling psychology at University of Surrey (2017).
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Visiting lecturer in Eating Disorders on Masters Programme in mental health at University College London (2017).
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