Christina MacLeod

Christina MacLeod is a psychological practitioner at the Private Therapy Clinic. She has completed an undergraduate and master’s in Applied Psychology. She aims to pursue a doctorate in clinical or counselling psychology. Christina has a wide range of interests which includes: ADHD, autism, attachment and relationship issues, as well as PTSD, insomnia, anxiety and depression.

Christina is an exceptional psychological practitioner with a deep understanding of young people with Autism. Her extensive experience in working with this population has equipped her with the skills to identify and address the unique needs of individuals with Autism. Christina’s passion for this area of practice is evident in the exceptional care and support she provides to her clients and their families. Her expertise in this field makes her an invaluable resource for anyone seeking assistance in navigating the complexities of Autism.

Treatment Approach

Christina MacLeod takes an approach grounded in CBT and is person-centred, working with her clients to reframe and change perspectives on issues. To build resilience, she teaches clients ways to rethink their painful thought processes and find alternative actions. She can also teach breathwork and mindfulness practices that allow peace from vicious thinking cycles and promote psychological breakthroughs. She will work closely with the client to fully understand their psyche, exploring how past experiences affect the present and focusing on their current challenges to find the most appropriate behavioural solutions.

Christina MacLeod has a wide range of experience in different contexts. She has primarily worked with children and young people. She works closely with clients to promote growth, higher self-esteem and find solutions to challenges. Christina has supported young people to overcome challenges by providing a safe and nurturing space for discourse. Christina adopts a person-centred which focuses on the client. The role of the researcher is to facilitate the client’s insight by supporting their reflection. She implements a mix of motivational interviewing and elements of CBT.

Background and experience

Her background in social sciences has provided multidimensional knowledge. Her holistic approach considers cultural, biological, and psychological factors contributing to clients’ experiences. Christina has a deep understanding of evolutionary psychology, family dynamics and how adversities in childhood can affect an individual’s behaviour, relationships and core beliefs. Christina works by identifying, knowledge and challenging core beliefs, and motivating clients to reach their full potential. However big or small, she understands how trauma can cause an individual to disconnect. She works with clients to heal and help them feel more connected to the world around them.

Mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, are often related to negative life experiences and family history. It also likely highlights the desire for a new approach to life, whether to practice more assertiveness or take more risks and engage with life. Sometimes issues are related to trauma, unhealthy relationships or bereavement. Or perhaps problems might arise from being unable to be oneself – this could relate to sexual orientation, gender identity or shame. Every individual is unique.

Initial Consultation

During the first session, Christina would discuss a client’s history and current difficulties and then make a collaborative decision on the best way to work together. She supports clients in making changes by facilitating insight and an open space for self-exploration and discovery. Christina’s strengths include being intuitive and open-minded and fostering warm and non-judgmental therapeutic relationships. The trusting therapeutic relationship aims to promote healing, resilience and action.