Dr Karina Lenard

Clinical Psychologist & Founder

I am a Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience supporting adults who have experienced trauma, complex trauma and adversity. Throughout my career, I have worked within specialist NHS services, helping people whose experiences continue to affect their emotional wellbeing, relationships and sense of self. Alongside my private practice, I currently work as a Complex Trauma Lead at a specialist NHS psychological therapy service.

I believe that our difficulties make sense when considered in the context of our life experiences. Trauma can affect each of us differently, and there is no single "right" way to respond. While some people develop symptoms associated with PTSD or Complex PTSD, others may experience anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive difficulties, problems with eating, emotional overwhelm, or longstanding patterns that affect relationships and everyday life. Together, we will take time to understand not only what is happening now, but also how your experiences may have shaped the ways you cope, relate to others and see yourself.

Our initial sessions are an opportunity to develop a shared understanding of your difficulties, strengths and goals. From there, we will create a personalised treatment plan that reflects your individual needs, values and hopes for therapy. My aim is to provide a warm, collaborative and non-judgemental space where you feel safe enough to explore your experiences at your own pace and begin making meaningful, lasting changes.

My approach is integrative and grounded in evidence-based practice. I draw on a range of therapeutic models, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy, Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Depending on your needs, I also incorporate principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), as well as narrative and systemic approaches, ensuring that therapy is tailored to you rather than fitting you into a particular model.