Dr Joseph Ibbitson - Clinical Psychologist

Hello, my name is Joseph and I am a Clinical Psychologist. I was born and raised in a Dorset village so I will always have a love for the countryside in my heart. I try to get out into nature when I can and enjoy spending time in the mountains. I’ve recently been learning to surf, which has been a good way to deepen my relationship with the natural world. I’ve even caught a bit of this sea swimming bug that’s going around. I also enjoy yoga and keeping fit, and sharing some of the kindness I’ve experienced in my life with others. 

I carried out a range of jobs earlier in my life including work as a refuse collector, building site labourer and support worker for those with autism, before deciding to commit to focusing on work with people experiencing distress. Since then, I’ve been working with people facing a wide range of challenges in a variety of roles over the past 15 years. This includes work with children, adults and families dealing with mental health difficulties, adjustment to physical health problems, and relationship based issues. I completed my Doctoral training in Clinical Psychology in 2020. Through my training and work experiences, I’ve learnt that everyone I meet already has some skills and knowledge to deal with the challenges they are facing. These may just be out of sight, and not currently visible. It’s my job to help shine a light on these so you can continue to make changes for yourself in the direction you wish to go. I’ve also found that supporting people to reconnect with their values, resources (both internal and external) and the intentions you have for your life, can help you to move forwards. This may seem hard to believe when you're feeling stuck, but with commitment to the process, you are able to make the changes you need to start to re-establish enough balance for yourself.

Whilst I can offer you some guidance, and some tools for your journey, I believe it is the client who makes the changes and commitment for something different that experiences the most long-lasting change. Importantly, I also think it’s helpful to consider the whole person (including the functioning of the body and how this relates to mental health) and our personal relationship to cultural norms and expectations. Furthermore, I may include aspects of mindfulness if this feels helpful, and therefore often take a holistic approach in my work. 

I understand from my own experience, that coming to speak to a stranger about things that feel so personal can feel scary, particularly at a time when things feel so challenging. But, I will always endeavour to help you to feel safe and understood in our appointments.

I accept referrals for children, adolescents and adults. I work with people experiencing a wide range of challenges including anxiety, low mood and adjustment to physical health problems. I also accept referrals for those with neurodiversity, issues related to identity and relationship difficulties. 

Therapeutic modalities used: 

• Narrative Therapy
• Systemic and Family therapy
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

I look forward to meeting you. 

Age Range:

Children, Adolescents and Adults.

Registration:

Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

Membership:

Enhanced DBS