Gabrielle Bray is a chartered counselling psychologist. She has a professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology, C.Psychol & B.A. (Hons) (Oxon) in Psychology, Philosophy and Physiology. Gabrielle’s training as a Counselling Psychologist began in her early forties after a previous career as an Accounts Technician. At that time, she was volunteering for the Samaritans in Horsham answering the telephone to people in distress. The experience had a profound effect on her. It struck her just how many people with mental health problems felt isolated and desperate and the healing that could be achieved by feeling heard and acknowledged. Concurrently, she studied with the Open University for a Foundation Degree in Social Sciences, which she passed with Honours. Gabrielle found the psychology module fascinating and decided this was her way forward to a career that she would find personally meaningful and a chance to help to make a difference in others’ lives.

Between 2003-2006, she studied Psychology, Philosophy and Physiology at Oxford University, which she passed with honours.  During this time, she volunteered as student counsellor for her college.   Between 2006 and 2007 she gained her first qualification in Counselling Psychology at City University (London) (Certificate in Counselling Psychology). Immediately she registered at Regent’s University (London) where she completed the professional doctorate in Counselling Psychology (British Psychological Society).  Gabrielle has also undertaken courses in Mindfulness, The IAPTs Supervisor Training for mood and anxiety disorders, depression and OCD in adolescents, as well as a certified training in Safeguarding. In addition she has completed BPS courses in supervision skills.

Alongside her studies, and beyond, she has continuously worked in clinical practice. This has involved specialist organizations, such as The Aurora Health Foundation (survivors of childhood abuse) and more general clinical work as a counsellor in the Occupational Health Department at Kingston Hospital and Richmond Borough Mind.  She continues to volunteer at Richmond Mind alongside my private practice.

Gabrielle is registered and approved by the British Psychological Society as a Chartered Counselling Psychologist, and with the HCPC.

The BPS sets standards of ethical practice to which she works, based on principles of integrity, respect, trust, autonomy, avoidance of harm and promotion of client’s well being.  Guidelines of good practice include provision of confidentiality, monitoring fitness to practice and accountability.  Further there is a requirement for ongoing supervision, professional indemnity insurance and continuing professional development (CPD).