About Me
I'm Ailsa Greenlees
I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and supervisor and EMDR UK registered therapist with over 14 years’ experience of working with adults and adolescents experiencing common mental health difficulties.
I initially trained as a mental health nurse and worked as a specialist nurse within an Early Intervention in Psychosis service that supported young adults and their families experiencing psychosis for the first time. I returned to university in 2012 to complete a Post-Graduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and have worked with adults to provide CBT since then. In my NHS role I also provide supervision for Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners and Cognitive Behaviour Therapists. I have undertaken additional training since qualifying and undertook specific training in EMDR in 2018, which is used to support people living with the effects of trauma.
I have a special interest in the impact of childhood events on our adult life as well as the link between our physical and mental health including the impact of living with a long term health condition.
As a psychotherapist I undertake regular clinical supervision with a senior colleague and maintain continuous professional development (CPD) in line with my accreditations.
What I can help you with
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
This is defined as chronic, excessive worry that is difficult to control which can cause distress and difficulty in day to day functioning.
Stress
This is an adverse reaction to demands placed on us which can impact on us emotionally, physically and behaviourally.
Depression
We might notice continuous feelings of sadness or low mood and hopelessness, often accompanied by tearfulness, lack of motivation or interest in things as well as struggling to get enjoyment from activities.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Frequent or persistent thoughts focussing on flaws in our appearance which results in increased anxiety, low mood and often avoidance behaviours. These flaws are not usually apparent to other people.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Usually presents with the experience of frequent obsessive thoughts, images or urges that cause feelings of anxiety, disgust or unease. Compulsions are the repetitive behaviours or mental acts that are carried out to bring temporary relief to the obsessions.
Panic Disorder
The experience of sudden panic or extreme anxiety, regularly at any time, often with no apparent trigger or reason. These attacks will include intense physical symptoms such as a racing heartbeat, feeling faint, shortness of breath and trembling.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
An anxiety disorder caused by very stressful or frightening events where the person will end up reliving these through intrusive flashbacks or nightmares. These memories are often accompanied by overwhelming emotions including, anxiety, fear, shame, guilt and anger.
Social Anxiety
A long term and overwhelming fear of social situations in which people often fear they will be judged negatively by others. Social Anxiety often leads to the development of avoidance behaviours which provide some relief in the short term.