Dr Alex Edwards is an experienced Clinical Psychologist specialising in the psychological assessment, formulation and interventions of children and families. She qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2008 and has supported children and families within a range of NHS settings and more recently within private practice. She has particular expertise in supporting children with autism spectrum conditions (ASC), including carrying out detailed diagnostic assessment of children presenting with social communication difficulties (including autism and/or complex trauma/attachment difficulties). She has also worked within a highly specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) for children with autism and/or learning difficulties who present with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression; as well as more complex presentations such as high risk and self-harming behaviours, experiences of trauma and abuse. This included developing rigorous risk assessments and management plans, and working closely with other agencies such as Children’s Services or Children’s Residential Settings to prevent placement breakdown and inpatient admissions. In addition to her clinical commitments, she provides expert witness services in the areas of Family and Criminal Law.

Areas of Expertise

• Assessment of child and adolescent mental health
• Assessment of autism spectrum conditions using the Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)
• Psychological formulation and therapy for children and adolescents (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), emotion regulation, and narrative therapy
• Assessment and therapeutic work with parents/carers
• Cognitive assessments with children
• Expert witness services in the areas of Family and Criminal Law

Educational Qualifications

Doctorate of Clinical Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London – 2008
BSc. Psychology, 1st Class Honours, University of York – 2004

Professional Affiliations

Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registered Practitioner Psychologist

Additional Information

Up-to-date DBS certificate, Professional Indemnity Insurance, Registered Data Officer with the ICO