Susan

Dr Susan Simpson, DClinPsy

Clinical Psychologist

“I am a psychologist with 25+ years' experience treating a range of emotional difficulties using a compassionate and individualised approach.”

About me

I’m Dr Susan Simpson, a clinical psychologist, Advanced Schema Therapy Trainer-Supervisor and Director of Schema Therapy Training Scotland. With more than 25 years’ experience working with people with eating disorders, I offer compassionate, individualised support that looks beyond symptoms to understand you as a whole person. I have a particular interest in supporting people for whom previous eating-disorder treatment has not been sufficient, as well as those seeking a broader approach alongside established treatment. Together, we can explore how emotional needs, past experiences, coping patterns, self-criticism and feelings of disconnection may be linked to difficulties with food and body image. My approach is trauma-informed and neurodivergence-affirming. I work collaboratively, taking time to understand your experiences, strengths and what matters to you. We explore what works for you, at a pace that feels manageable, combining deeper understanding with practical ways to respond to everyday challenges. I aim to offer a warm, non-judgemental space where you feel heard, understood and able to speak openly—even about things that are difficult to put into words. You do not need to arrive with clear answers or know exactly where to begin; we can find a starting point together. Alongside my clinical work, I train therapists across Europe and Australia and contribute to international research on Schema Therapy for eating disorders. I am co-author of *Schema Therapy for Eating Disorders* and *The Cambridge Guide to Schema Therapy*. My latest book, *Breaking Negative Eating Patterns and Remembering Your True Self: A Self-Help and Support Book*, offers an accessible, compassionate resource for people experiencing eating difficulties and those supporting them.

Approach

My approach is grounded in Schema Therapy and shaped by more than 25 years of clinical experience. Together, we explore the emotional needs, past experiences and coping patterns that may be contributing to your difficulties. We recognise how these patterns have helped you cope, while understanding where they may now be limiting you. I combine practical strategies with emotional and experiential work. This may include imagery, chairwork and noticing how feelings show up in your body. These approaches help us explore different parts of you—for example, a harsh inner critic, a part that tries to stay in control, or a part that feels overwhelmed and needs care. We work towards greater self-compassion and confidence in recognising and responding to your needs. The therapeutic relationship is central to my work. My approach is warm, collaborative, trauma-informed and neurodivergence-affirming, with sessions adapted to your needs and paced so you can remain engaged without feeling overwhelmed. We agree on meaningful, achievable goals and, where helpful, small steps to practise between sessions. I mainly offer sessions online by videolink, supporting people with eating disorders, trauma-related difficulties, anxiety and longstanding patterns of self-criticism or control.
Contact Susan

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic information

Languages:

English

Fees:

Direct payment

In-person & Online

Services

Schema Therapy Deep Brain Reorienting

Services Offered:

  • Clinical Supervision

    Professional oversight and reflective practice for clinical practitioners, ensuring quality of care and supporting ongoing development.

  • Counseling

    A form of talk therapy providing a safe, confidential space to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours with a trained professional.

    Learn more about Counseling
  • Trauma Counseling

    Counselling specifically for people affected by traumatic events, focused on processing what happened and reducing symptoms like flashbacks and hypervigilance.

    Learn more about Trauma Counseling
  • Online Therapy

    Therapy sessions conducted over video call, phone, or secure messaging, using the same professional methods delivered remotely.

    Learn more about Online Therapy
  • Psych & Diagnostic Assessment

    Formal psychological testing to identify conditions, understand cognitive and emotional functioning, and guide treatment planning.

  • Individual Therapy

    One-on-one therapy sessions between a client and a therapist, focused on that person's specific concerns and goals.

    Learn more about Individual Therapy
  • Schema Therapy

    A therapy that identifies deep, long-standing emotional patterns (schemas) formed in childhood and works to change the ones that cause recurring problems.

    Learn more about Schema Therapy

Works With:

  • Adolescents
  • Adults

Area of expertise

Scope of Practice:

  • Abuse

    Emotional, physical, or sexual mistreatment by another person that causes lasting psychological harm and disrupts a person's sense of safety.

  • Anxiety

    Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • Behaviour or Conduct Issues

    Persistent patterns of defiant, aggressive, or rule-breaking behaviour in children or adolescents that significantly disrupt home, school, or social life.

  • Body Image

    How a person perceives, thinks, and feels about their physical appearance. When persistently negative, it can drive distress, avoidance, and disordered eating.

    Learn more about Body Image
  • Stress / Burnout

    The body and mind's response to prolonged or excessive demands. When sustained, it can lead to emotional exhaustion, detachment, and reduced functioning (burnout).

    Learn more about Stress / Burnout
  • OCD

    Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, a condition involving unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or rituals (compulsions) performed to relieve anxiety.

    Learn more about OCD
  • Control Issues

    A persistent need to control situations, people, or outcomes, typically driven by underlying anxiety, fear of uncertainty, or past experiences of helplessness.

  • Mood Disorder

    A category of mental health conditions, including depression and bipolar disorder, in which a person's emotional state is significantly and persistently disrupted.

    Learn more about Mood Disorder
  • Eating Disorders

    A group of conditions, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating, involving disturbed eating behaviours and a distorted relationship with food and body image.

    Learn more about Eating Disorders
  • Trauma

    The lasting psychological impact of deeply distressing events, such as violence, abuse, accidents, or disasters, that overwhelm a person's ability to cope.

    Learn more about Trauma

Professional Title:

  • Clinical Psychologist

    An advanced mental health professional trained to assess and treat a wide range of difficulties, from anxiety and depression to trauma and complex conditions.

Credentials

Registrations

Schema Therapy Scotland

Psychologist

Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

Clinical Psychologist (PYL)

Registration: PYL21065

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Qualifications

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

University of Newcastle Upon Tyne

Year: 2004

Memberships

British Psychological Society (BPS)

Full Member

Membership: 075159

Service Areas

Private Practice Office

In-person & Online

Dunblane, Stirlingshire

United Kingdom

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Dunblane, United Kingdom