Psychology & Counselling Service
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Dr Emma Mahoney
Chartered Clinical Psychologist
Emma works at Drumbeat one day a week and has been with us for a number of years. Prior to this she has worked for over 15 years in CAMHS services with children on the autistic spectrum and their families. For several years, Emma was based at the Maudsley Hospital in South London, where she was the Team Lead within the National Service for Complex Autism and Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders (SCAAND) Team. Emma now works in independent practice to provide support, therapy, consultation and supervision to children and families with a wide range of psychological difficulties including those on the autistic spectrum.
Psychologists and counsellors offer support about a wide range of mental health, emotional and behavioural problems including anxiety, depression, learning difficulties and relationship issues. They use a range of assessment, psychometric tests, interviews and observation measures to investigate and understand a clients’ situation. Following assessment, they may offer advice or consultation to those who care for children (such as parents and teachers), or work directly with children and their families. Therapeutic invention might involve play techniques, helping to understand through focused (active) listening, working on family issues, and using more structured techniques such as CBT (which focuses on the links between thoughts, feelings and behaviour). Work can sometimes also be provided individually or in groups.
How Psychology and Counselling works at Drumbeat
Links to useful websites
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Leah Sharkah
Assistant Psychologist
Leah started working at Drumbeat School in July 2022. She is based in both Downham and Brockley sites, mainly working with students in KS3, KS4 and Sixth Form. Leah is a First Class BSc Psychology graduate, with aspirations to become a Clinical Psychologist. Prior to starting at Drumbeat School, Leah worked in the NHS as an Assistant Psychologist providing support to young people, adults as well as those on the autism spectrum, experiencing a wide range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, trauma and depression. Leah is committed to raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, and to increasing equity of access to high-quality mental health support.