Rate Jane Wheller

After my undergraduate degree in psychology and education, I undertook a master’s degree in social work. I built upon this with this my undertaking postgraduate training in integrative therapy, motivational interviewing, brief-solution focused therapy, therapeutic life story work, Dyadic developmental practice (DDP) and sensory attachment intervention. This supported a career as a therapeutic consultant social worker, and I have over 20 years’ experience of working with children and families. I have specialised in the field of developmental trauma and therapeutic care planning for care experienced children.

Following on from this I developed my portfolio to doctoral level in applied psychology combining other evidence-based approaches such as trauma based cognitive behavioural therapy, Eye movement desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Systemic Therapy; all of which place the person at the centre of relational practice.

Worked within the NHS Secondary CAMHS (Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services) setting for several years has enhanced my practice further developing experience with a range of complex diagnosis of anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, and neurodiversity (of which I have developed a specialist interest in and have undertaken training in the Autism Diagnostic observation Schedule –(ADOS-2).

I have worked in forensic setting in both voluntary organisations and private residential secure settings with adults as well as working in substance misuse for several years. Other areas of work have included working in the specialist area of sexual abuse for the NSPCC for several years.

I am also a trainer and have experience in delivering training in attachment and trauma, motivational interviewing, sensory intervention, mindfulness, loss, sand tray, principles of DDP parenting and therapeutic life story work. This has been delivered to a variety of audiences, individuals, university students, foster carers, professionals, and residential units.

The integration of a broad range of therapeutic interventions has enabled me to create bespoke packages of care, tailored to an individual needs. Recent developments have included working therapeutically with my passion for animals and I have trained in level 1 Animal Assisted Play Therapy.