Dr Maria Daves

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Consultant Counselling Psychologist and ADHD Coach

BSc (Hons), MSc, DCounsPsy, HCPC reg, BPS reg

Dr Maria Daves is a Counselling Psychologist with over 15 years’ experience of working therapeutically in mental health settings. She draws upon cognitive-behavioural, existential and psychodynamic models, which she uses to tailor a unique formulation and treatment plan for each person, according to the difficulties with which they are struggling and the changes they wish to make. She often uses Schema informed therapy, as well as techniques from Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy. Maria’s approach is informed by an evolving psychological formulation; a shared understanding of a client's presenting difficulties arrived at through exploration and reflection.

Maria provides Adolescent and Adult Autism and ADHD pre-diagnostic assessments. She uses the gold standard assessment tools recommended by the Clinical NICE Guidelines; and she is an accredited DISCO, ADOS and ADI-R administrator and uses the DIVA assessment toll and CONNERS for ADHD.  She also provides post-diagnostic support sessions for those with a diagnosis of Autism/ADHD, as well as, relationship support. (Please note that Maria is unable to prescribe medication.)

Maria started her career working with people with Autism (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD) and this remains one of her specialist areas. She has gone on to work with adults with longstanding emotional and psychological difficulties, as well as those struggling with an acute crisis or period of stress. In her previous NHS practice, she provided diagnostic assessment in the areas of ASD and ADHD and worked therapeutically with those on the Neurodevelopmental Spectrum who are experiencing specific difficulties including depression, phobias, obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, addictions and relationship difficulties. Maria has a strong interest in Neurodevelopmental difficulties, especially in women, and those coming to terms with other health, personal issues and lifespan challenges. 

Maria also works with people who are struggling with broader difficulties, for example anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulties managing emotion and the impact of unresolved traumas from the past.

Maria has Professional Qualifications and Training:

• Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from Regents College

• Bachelors Degree in Psychology & Forensic Science

• Masters of Science Degree in Health Psychology 

• Masters of Arts Degree in Leadership & Consultancy, Tavistock & Portman, UK (Pending)

Maria has experience in both National Health Service, The Priory Group and Private clinics in London. Her roles have included Principal Counselling Psychologist, Kingston & Richmond NHS Services, Consultant Counselling Psychologist, The Priory Group and Head of Psychological Therapies, St Bart’s and The Royal London Hospital.

 

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