About me

Dr Josephine Swede, chartered counselling psychologist

Professional Background

I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years, and have worked in various settings across the NHS, private and charity sectors. I began my career working in in-patient settings, supporting people struggling with severe mental health difficulties before embarking on my clinical training. I completed my doctorate in Psychotherapeutic and Counselling Psychology (PsychD) at the University of Surrey, working across several NHS setting with individuals with a broad spectrum of difficulties. I have since worked in several different private practice settings, alongside working regularly as an expert witness primarily for asylum & immigration cases, as well as some criminal cases. I have completed formal training in the administration and coding of the ADOS-2 and ADI-R, tools utilised in the comprehensive assessment of Autism, as well as undergoing training to support Autistic individual or those who may be exploring this identity.

My Approach

The therapy I offer is grounded in evidence-based practice, ethical integrity, and individualised support. I am integratively trained which means I am able to tailor therapy to each client depending on what they are struggling with and what their goals for therapy might be. Therapy may be short-term or longer-term, in-person or online, but will always be tailored do your individual needs and offered in a safe and confidential space. There is no one size fits all when it comes to therapy and I typically draw from a range of therapeutic approaches including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), compassion-focused therapy (CFT), as well as schema-informed and mindfulness-based approaches amongst others. More details about the types of therapy I offer can be found here.‍ ‍

My therapy approach tends to be more practical and change oriented, whilst also being a space to reflect. I will always work with you to establish the best approach to fit your goals and preferences. I work in a collaborative and evidence-based way, recognising how relationships, culture, identity, and wider social contexts influence psychological wellbeing. I am committed to providing neuro-affirming care, valuing difference and diversity, and creating a space that feels reflective, culturally sensitive, and free from judgement.

I adhere strictly to the British Psychological Society’s code of Ethics and Conduct which can be found here as well as the standards of practice as set out by the Health & Care Professionals Council (HCPC) which can be found here. I also follow the Code of Practice as set out by the Expert Witness Institute.

Training & Qualifications

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Primary Training & Qualifications:

  • Doctorate in Psychotherapeutic and Counselling Psychology (PsychD)

  • Diploma in Autism and Mental Health - National Centre for Autism & Mental Health

  • ADOS-2 and ADI-R Trained (Autism assessment)

    Additional Training:

  • Certified Clinical Supervisor (BPS-accredited)

  • Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment clinician

  • Excellence in report writing for Expert Witnesses (Bond Solon)

Memberships & Accreditations

  • Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC): PYL039087

  • British Psychological Society (BPS): 356628

  • Expert Witness Institute, Full member (MEWI)