17/11/2025
๐ซ๐ซMeet the Team Monday๐ซ๐ซ
Say hello to Elley, our Trainee High Intensity CBT Therapist! ๐
From Philosophy graduate to psychology enthusiast, sheโs travelled the world, supported others abroad, and now brings her warmth and passion for helping people to the Focus team.
Get to know her below!
Whatโs your role, and what does a typical day look like for you?
I'm a Trainee High Intensity CBT Therapist - and a typical day in service usually involves seeing clients, preparing for sessions, reading (there's always reading to be done!) and completing admin.
How long have you been with the Focus?
7 months.
What inspired you to join this field?
I've always been curious about the mind. My first degree is in Philosophy, and after studying I'd worked abroad for a couple of years. Whilst living in New Zealand I'd started to volunteer with older adults a few hours a week, and the best part of it was finding out about them and hearing their stories. I realised I wanted to work in a helping capacity, so after coming home, I studied an evening course in Counselling at college before getting on to a Masters degree in Psychology.
Whatโs the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is the privilege of being invited into peopleโs lives.
If you werenโt in this role, what job would you love to try?
A radio presenter! The idea of playing my favourite music and chatting to people who ring in all day sounds pretty great.
Whatโs one book, TV show, or podcast youโd recommend?
Book: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi - it's a gut punchingly poignant and reflective look at mortality, morality and purpose.
Podcast: Hidden Brain - looking at the psychology of everyday human behaviour
If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would you go?
Back to New Zealand (but via Canada, which has been on my list for ages!)