What I can help with
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Social Anxiety
- Panic
- Anxiety
- Health Anxiety
- Trauma/PTSD
- Depression
- Self-esteem
- Perfectionism
- Addiction
- Relationships
- Anger
- Adjustment Disorder
- Long term health conditions
- Women's Health
- Parenting
- Stress
- Grief and Bereavement
- Professional Burnout
- Coaching
Therapies offered
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Mindfulness Stress Reduction
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Approach
Ali’s approach to therapy is collaborative and compassionate, providing a safe space for people to work on their difficulties. She mainly uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (or ACT) as a way of working flexibly with people who are experiencing a range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, trauma, as well as general stress and overwhelm. ACT is an approach which combines learning practical strategies for dealing with difficulties, with action focused towards living the life you want. As well as being a Clinical Psychologist, Ali is also a yoga & mindfulness teacher and children’s yoga therapist. She often draws on her knowledge in this area to give a holistic understanding of well-being, as well as using her skills to work with the body, mind and heart to optimise this. She also has an interest in the healing effects of connecting with nature.
Experience
Dr Ali Downes is a Clinical Psychologist registered with the HCPC, having completed her clinical training in 2009, with the University of Manchester. Ali has experience of working with people who have diverse needs, across a range of different settings, including NHS inpatient services, community mental health teams, as well as independent practice.