ABOUT ME

I studied my first psychology degree at the University of Manchester where I graduated in 1989. Following this, I worked for two years as a child development adviser for Norwood, a voluntary agency. I then gained a place on a three year doctoral clinical psychology training course at the University of East London. My training placements were at Great Ormond Street Childrens Hospital, The Royal London Hospital, The Whittington Hospital, Camden and Islington Psychology Service plus other NHS centres around London. Through training I obtained a thorough grounding in all aspects of child and adult mental health, the workings of teams and experts within the NHS and the public sector.

In my first post qualification job, I worked half of the week in NHS community clinics and the other half of the job was based in an inpatient adolescent unit. I was exposed to a wide range of people, problems, backgrounds and styles of working (short and long term) with expert colleagues and varied families from all classes and cultures. At around this time I also completed post qualification training in family therapy at the Tavistock Clinic. In 1999 I moved on (half time) to Hammersmith and Fulham NHS, where I was Head of Psychology at a Child and Family Consultation Service, now known as CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). At the same time I took a separate half time post at Middlesex University where I still work. In order to manage starting my own family at that time, I gave up my NHS clinical post and remained half time at Middlesex University. The rest of my working week is now in independent practice. I find that the mix of working in academia and in independent practice allows me to keep in touch with latest research findings and with students, yet at the same time, I am able to utilise my clinical expertise for working face-to-face with people who need help.

Individual work:

I work with people of all ages and with a wide range of presenting difficulties. After an initial phone call we would usually meet once or twice for an assessment to work out if I can help you and whether I will be the best fit for your needs. It is important to make sure we can work together and that you feel I am suitable for you, your family and your personalities. If not, I am more than happy to recommend other local colleagues.

Teaching, Training, Consultancy & Supervision

In addition to my clinical and University work, I am also increasingly involved with teaching, training, service evaluation and consultancy to organisations within the NHS, Education, Government, and Corporate sectors. Here I teach on aspects of mental health, resilience, well being and communication skills. These workshops are usually tailor made to the needs of the group. Please do approach me if this is something your organisation would be interested in.

https://www.ted.com/talks/fiona_starr_mike_solomon_sh_t_happens_what_next_8_lessons_in_resilience

http://www.mdx.ac.uk/about-us/our-people/staff-directory/starr-fiona

I am registered with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and the Health Professionals Council (HCPC). These professional bodies have to make sure I fulfil all their criteria for training, CPD and ethical practice. I have to re-register with them each year to prove that I am still legitimate. I also have a DBS check for my work with children.

I undertake regular clinical supervision, which means I discuss cases anonymously with other psychologists who help balance my thinking and practice.

I enjoy regular and relevant continuing professional development (CPD) courses to keep me up to date. I subscribe to relevant psychology journals and enjoy reflecting about my work to improve my practice.

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BACKGROUND

CURRENT WORK

SAFETY