🌱 What Does an Assistant Psychologist Do in a Trauma-Informed Service?
At first glance, the title “Assistant Psychologist” might sound like a behind-the-scenes role, but in a trauma-informed service, it can mean being right there alongside clients as they take their first steps toward healing.
I’m Emma Jackson, and I work as an Assistant Psychologist under the supervision of Dr Deborah Kingston. My role isn’t just about admin and logistics (although, yes, I do help manage referrals, website enquiries, and telephone consultations) — it’s about creating safe, nurturing spaces for people navigating the aftermath of trauma.
🧠Supporting Your Healing Journey
I work directly with clients to help them prepare for trauma therapy, especially Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). This includes:
- Grounding and stabilisation sessions: We focus on helping you feel safer in your body and mind before deeper therapeutic work begins.
- Psychoeducation: Understanding how trauma affects the brain and emotions can be empowering — I’ll walk you through that in simple, supportive terms.
- Mapping traumatic experiences: I help you explore your past gently, so it can later be processed with a qualified Clinical Psychologist or EMDR therapist.
Occasionally, clients discover that what they needed most was clarity and validation. In those moments, further referral isn’t always necessary — and that’s okay. Every person’s healing path looks different.
👥 Preparing for Group Work
I’ll soon be co-facilitating trauma-focused therapy groups with Dr Kingston. These groups can offer new ways of connecting, sharing, and learning from others who’ve had similar experiences — always in a respectful, boundaried environment.
💬 A First Point of Contact That Truly Listens
Whether you’re reaching out via phone, online, or in person, I’ll be your first point of contact. You won’t be met with clinical jargon or robotic processes — just a real conversation, tailored to where you are and what you need.
💛 Trauma-Informed Means Person-Informed
A trauma-informed approach means we recognise the impact of adversity, promote safety, and avoid re-traumatisation. For me, that starts with understanding you as a person first — not just your history.
I’d be honoured to support you as you begin or continue your healing journey. If you’re thinking about working with our service and want to explore whether it’s the right fit, please feel free to get in touch:
