Clinical Psychologist

Dr Heidi Mason

I have been a clinical psychologist for over 23 years and worked for the NHS for over 26 years. I have extensive experience of working with children and young people who are experiencing health, social, emotional, behavioural, psychological, and relational difficulties. I have specialist experience in working with children and young people with learning disabilities and neurodiversity; leading on pathways for the assessment, diagnosis, intervention and support for children and families.

I undertake specialist assessments of neurodiversity alongside cognitive assessments and work with families formulating their child’s differences and identifying the appropriate intervention and support. I am a sleep counsellor and have experience of supporting improved sleeping behaviour for children with additional needs. I have specialist knowledge and experience in offering relational and parenting support to families, both individual and within group settings.

I obtained my undergraduate psychology degree at the University of Central Lancashire and completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Liverpool.

I am a registered practitioner psychologist with the HCPC. I am also a member of the British Psychological Society.

I am trained in the Webster Stratton Training Programme, Riding the Rapids, Parent Child Game, Sleep Scotland and the ADOS2.

Consultant Child and Adolescent psychiatrist / MBBS / MRCPsych

Dr. Louise Holly

I graduated from the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne in 1994 and did my surgical and medical foundation training in the North East. I did specialist psychiatry training in Manchester working with adults and young people across many different services including out-patient, in-patient, forensic and Learning disability settings.

I became a Consultant Child and adolescent psychiatrist in 2006 and worked in the NHS until 2021.

My work in the NHS specialised in working with young people with Autism spectrum conditions, ADHD and Learning disabilities. I have worked in many multi-agency assessment teams.

I am on the specialist register (GMC) and am a member of the Royal College of psychiatrists.

Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN) / Non-Medical Prescriber (NMP) / ADOS Trained

Julie Jakeman

I joined the Board of Directors having more than 35 years experience as a Registered Mental Health Nurse with-in the NHS.

As a Non Medical Prescriber, I have developed and led Nurse led clinics for ADHD.

I am ADOS trained and have supported neurodiverse assessments for both Adults and Children.

In my career I have held clinical and leadership positions locally and City Wide.

I am excited about being part of Amethyst Assessment Centre who offer timely and high quality assessments and diagnosis for neurodiverse conditions.

I have training in Family Therapy, Parenting Interventions including IAPT, None Medical Prescribing and ADOS assessments.

Occupational Therapist (MSc OT) and Sensory Integration Practitioner (PGCert SI) HCPC Registered

Samantha Taylor

Since qualifying as an Occupational Therapist in January 2011 I have worked in a range of health, education and social care settings. Since 2018 I have worked in different CAMH services, including community and schools as a Mental Health Practitioner, and inpatient CAMHS as a Senior Occupational Therapist. I moved to working in a new team as an Advanced Occupational Therapist in a CAMHS Intensive Support Team for young people with ASC, which was set up as a pilot. My role was to bring an Occupational Therapy perspective to the service, along with in-depth assessment using Occupational Therapy and Sensory Integration tools, and support for families.

In January 2022 I launched my private Occupational Therapy and Sensory Integration Service, Lotus OT. Since then, I have worked alongside schools, colleges, residential settings, local authorities and individual families with the aim of providing a person-centred assessment or intervention based on occupational or sensory needs. I specialise in working with children, young people and adults with ASC to conduct Sensory Integration assessments; providing education or training around sensory processing and an individual’s sensory patterns, or intervention as required.

Administrator

Zena Downer

I have 43 years experience working in HM Revenue & Customs & The Crown Prosecution Service.

My skills include general administration, validating statements and reports, handling sensitive data  and confidential information.

Social Worker / ADOS Trained

Cathy Charlton

Hello my name is Cathy, I have a lot of experience working in health and social care; specifically with Adults and Children who may have additional needs. I am passionate about ensuring an excellent standard of care and support which is fair, collaborative and represents the needs of local communities.

Registered Mental Health Nurse

Dawn Grenter

I left school & trained to be a hairdresser, got married, had twin sons. I  re-trained as a RMN & have worked until I retired (April 2022)  with children, young people & their families. I am a widow. I have given a lot of thought to going back into a workforce as I believe I still have many skills to offer.

I have a Diploma of Higher Education in Health Care Studies, Psychosocial Care of Children, Adolescents & Their Families, Postgraduate Diploma in Child & Family Mental Health.

Registered Mental Health Nurse / ADOS Trained

Vicki Turner

I am passionate mental health nurse dedicated to supporting individuals on their unique journeys towards wellness and self-discovery. With a focus on neurodiversity, I bring empathy, understanding, and specialised care to those navigating the diverse spectrum of neurological conditions.

My journey into mental health nursing began with a deep-seated curiosity about the human mind and an unwavering commitment to advocating for inclusivity and empowerment. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and neurotypes, fostering a safe and nurturing environment where their voices are heard and respected.

As a fervent advocate for neurodiversity, I believe in celebrating the rich tapestry of human cognition and embracing the inherent beauty in our differences. Whether supporting individuals with autism, ADHD, or other neurological conditions, I strive to promote acceptance, understanding, and access to tailored resources that empower individuals to thrive on their own terms.

In my practice, I blend evidence-based interventions with a holistic, person-centred approach, recognising that everyone possesses their unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Whether providing therapeutic support, educational resources, or advocacy services, I am committed to walking alongside my clients every step of the way, fostering resilience, self-compassion, and genuine connection.

Beyond my clinical practice, I am deeply invested in community outreach, education, and destigmatising conversations surrounding neurodiversity. Through workshops, presentations, and collaborative initiatives, I aim to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and foster a more inclusive society where everyone feels valued, understood, and supported.

When I’m not in the clinic, you can often find me immersed in nature, indulging in a good book, or exploring creative outlets that nourish my soul. I believe in the transformative power of connection, compassion, and self-discovery, and I am honoured to be a part of each individual’s journey towards holistic well-being.

If you seek compassionate support, understanding, and guidance on your neurodiverse journey, I’m here to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and unwavering support. Together, let’s embrace the beauty of neurodiversity and embark on a path towards empowerment, growth, and fulfilment.

Senior Clinician

Vicky Brennan

SEND has been my passion since childhood due to personal experiences, which then inspired my career as a SEND Officer and more recently a Senior SEND Officer. My role requires me to have extensive experience of working with children, young people and their families alongside stakeholders within education, health and social care to ensure the best outcomes are achieved for all via co-production working. It’s an honour and privilege to work in such a diverse and challenging field with exciting times ahead when considering the proposed changes following the Government’s Right Support, Right Place, Right Time.