Supporting fellow professionals in their clinical practice
I'm Claire Dougherty, and I'm passionate about supporting people through their most challenging moments. Whether you're struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or simply feeling stuck, I'm here to provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy that empowers you to move forward.
With a background in Mental Health Nursing and extensive training in specialist psychological therapies, I bring both clinical expertise having 15 years’ experience in the NHS and genuine understanding to every session. I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, and hopeful about their future.
To provide compassionate, evidence-based psychological therapy that empowers individuals to move forward in their lives, build resilience, and reconnect with a sense of safeness and self-worth. My practice is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a deep respect for each person's lived experience.
My journey began with training and registration as a Mental Health Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This foundation gave me invaluable hands-on experience working with people experiencing severe and enduring mental health difficulties across various healthcare settings.
I completed intensive training through a Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), ultimately achieving BABCP accreditation – widely recognised as the gold standard for CBT practitioners in the UK. This training equipped me with robust, evidence-based skills to help people understand and transform unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours.
I was also fortunate to undertake the IAPT Top‑Up Training in trauma‑focused Cognitive Therapy for PTSD. This specialist training deepened my understanding of trauma and ignited a strong passion for supporting people living with complex trauma. It shaped the direction of my practice and strengthened my commitment to offering compassionate, effective therapy for those navigating the impact of difficult life experiences.
Recognising the profound impact of trauma on mental health, I pursued specialist training in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and a Diploma in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). These powerful modalities enable me to support people with complex trauma histories, including survivors of childhood abuse, sexual trauma, and attachment difficulties.
I completed the IAPT Clinical Supervision Course and the Developing as a Clinical Supervisor in CFT programme, allowing me to support fellow therapists in their professional development. I remain committed to ongoing learning, attending regular training and staying current with emerging research in trauma and psychological therapies.
I founded Tall Oaks Psychological Therapies to create a safe, accessible space where people can receive specialist, trauma-informed care. My practice reflects my commitment to reducing distress, strengthening individuals' sense of self, and expanding access to high-quality psychological support.
I chose the name Tall Oaks because oak trees have long symbolised strength, resilience, and deep‑rooted growth. They remind us that even the tallest, most enduring trees begin as small seeds and with the right support, we can all grow into our own steady, grounded strength.
Oaks are known for their longevity and their ability to withstand storms, representing the capacity to endure hardship and emerge stronger. Their deep root systems evoke safety, stability, and being anchored qualities that mirror the secure base I aim to create for clients. Across cultures, the oak is also seen as a wise tree, symbolising clarity, learning, and inner knowing. And through their acorns small seeds with enormous potential, they embody renewal and hope, reminding us that new beginnings often grow from the smallest, most fragile starting points.
I have specialist expertise in working with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD, using evidence-based approaches that help process traumatic memories and reduce distress.
I work extensively with survivors of sexual abuse and assault, including childhood sexual abuse. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space to process these experiences at your own pace.
I support people who have experienced attachment trauma, helping to understand how early experiences impact current relationships and develop healthier patterns.
I work with a range of anxiety disorders and depression, using CBT and CFT to help you develop effective coping strategies and improve your quality of life.
I believe that healing begins with compassion – both for yourself and from others. I create a warm, non-judgemental space where you can explore your experiences without shame or criticism.
Particularly when working with trauma, safety and stabilisation come first. We move at your pace, ensuring you feel grounded and supported throughout your therapeutic journey.
You are the expert on your own life. I work collaboratively with you, ensuring therapy is tailored to your unique needs, goals, and circumstances.
I use therapies that are backed by research and recommended by NICE guidelines, including CBT, EMDR, and CFT – approaches proven to be effective.
I welcome people from all backgrounds and identities. My practice is culturally sensitive and affirming, recognising the diverse experiences that shape who we are.
My goal is to help you develop the skills, insights, and resilience to navigate life's challenges independently. Therapy is about empowering you to be your own therapist.
If you're considering therapy, I'd love to hear from you. I offer a free 15-minute consultation where we can discuss your needs and whether we might be a good fit.
Providing CBT, EMDR & CFT in Rugeley, Staffordshire and across the UK via online therapy
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