About
Dr Louise J HarroldClinical Psychologist
I have 29 years experience working in the NHS, including 6 years in the New Zealand public health service, supporting adults with complex mental health difficulties. I started my NHS journey as an Occupational Therapist, qualifying in 1997 in London, working in Forensic and Mental Health services in the UK and New Zealand until 2006, when I returned to the UK to retrain as a Clinical Psychologist. I have worked in adult Clinical Health Psychology services in Cumbria, with the last 4 years working in a Paediatric Clinical Health Psychology Service, Highland. I made the difficult, but exciting, decision to leave the NHS earlier this year (2026) to pursue a new adventure in the field of private practice, specialising in working with those who have experienced trauma in their life or who are struggling with the emotional impact life can bring at times.
What is a clinical psychologist?
Specialist training in the science of the mind
For those of you who may not be familiar with the role of a clinical psychologist, I have included a brief summary of our training and skills: 'A Clinical psychologist is a highly trained specialist who has completed a three-year Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) programme— following a BSc Honours degree in psychology and several years of supervised clinical experience. Their professional registration is under Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to practice.
Clinical psychologists are trained to assess, formulate, and treat a wide range of mental health difficulties using evidence-based psychological therapies. Unlike psychiatrists, they do not prescribe medication; instead, they work through talking and structured psychological approaches to help people understand and change unhelpful patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaviour. Clinical research, consultation and leadership skills are also part of their Doctoral training.'
My clinical work is grounded in compassion, clinical rigour, and a deep respect for each person’s unique experience. I believe that understanding the science of the mind, and applying it with genuine care, is one of the most meaningful things I can offer to the people I work with.
Background
My training & experience
I completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in Leeds, and have since worked across NHS services and independent settings, developing specialist skills in trauma and its wide-ranging effects on mental health and daily life; as well as working with individuals who are struggling with the emotional impact of living with a long-term health condition.
My clinical experience spans inpatient and community mental health services, and specialist trauma services. I have worked with adults across a broad range of presentations, and lately children and families, always with a focus on evidence-based, compassionate care.
I was born in South Africa and moved to the UK when I was 8 years old. I have lived throughout the UK and New Zealand, and I am now based in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland. I offer sessions both in person and remotely, making specialist psychological support accessible wherever you are.
How I work
A thoughtful, tailored approach
I draw on a range of evidence-based therapeutic models, selecting and adapting approaches to suit each individual. Some of these include Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I believe that the therapeutic relationship, the quality of trust, safety, and genuine connection between us, is in itself a powerful part of the healing process. I work at a pace that feels right for you, and I will never push you further or faster than you are ready to go.
Qualifications & memberships
Would you like to know more?
If what you have read here resonates with you, I would be glad to hear from you. A free 10-minute telephone consultation is a good place to start, no commitment, just a chance to talk.
Arrange a free consultation