João Bernardo CPsychol
About me
I am a Clinical Psychologist, trained in Portugal, and a Chartered Member of the British Psychological Society (BPS). I am also registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
In addition, I am a UKCP-registered Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist, a training I undertook to deepen my understanding of the human mind and to better support those I work with.
Over the years, I have supported individuals through a wide range of difficulties, including work-related stress, academic challenges, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and more complex mental health presentations. My professional experience spans private practice, charitable organisations, independent healthcare providers, and NHS services.
My approach is informed by both Clinical Psychology and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Whilst Clinical Psychology provides a broad understanding of psychological difficulties and evidence-based interventions, psychoanalytic thinking offers an opportunity to explore the deeper emotional experiences, patterns, and relationships that shape our lives. Together, these perspectives allow me to work with both immediate concerns and the broader context in which they arise.
Alongside my established clinical and psychotherapeutic practice, I am currently undertaking professional training in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). This reflects my ongoing commitment to developing my trauma-informed practice and expanding the ways in which I can support individuals who have experienced trauma, adversity, or particularly distressing life events.
I believe that therapy is most effective when it provides a space for curiosity, reflection, and genuine enquiry. Rather than applying the same approach to everyone, I work collaboratively with each individual to develop an understanding of their unique experiences, difficulties, strengths, and aspirations.
Whether working therapeutically with individuals, supervising professionals, or consulting with teams and organisations, I am interested in helping people think more deeply about their experiences, develop greater understanding, and create the conditions for meaningful and lasting change.