Consultant Psychiatrist · FRCPsych
Private psychiatric assessment, diagnosis and treatment for adults, drawing on more than fifty years of clinical experience across general adult psychiatry.
55+
Years in psychiatry
FRCPsych
Fellow, Royal College of Psychiatrists
Maudsley
Specialist training
Insurers
BUPA · AXA · Vitality & more
About
I trained in medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, completed my house jobs in Newcastle and London, and then began specialist psychiatric training in the capital. I started in the Psychiatry of Older Adults under Professor Tom Arie before joining The Maudsley Hospital, where I worked alongside Professor Michael Shepherd, Felix Post and Dr Henri Rey.
From 1979 to 2016 I was a Consultant Psychiatrist with what became the North East London Foundation Trust (NELFT), working across mother and baby, rehabilitation, day hospital, liaison psychiatry, outpatient clinics and inpatient units. In 2016 I moved fully into private practice.
My training shaped a lasting interest in the interplay between genetics and environment, and in combining psychotherapeutic and pharmacological approaches. Working in the culturally diverse communities of East London deepened my understanding of how culture, class and religion shape the presentation and treatment of mental illness.
Credentials
GMC No. 1511932 · Recognised by BUPA, AXA, Vitality and other major UK medical insurers
What I Treat
I see adults presenting across the full range of general psychiatry. Where appropriate, I involve families and partners in the process.
Major depressive disorders and bipolar / bipolar spectrum disorder.
Panic disorder, social phobia and generalised anxiety.
Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and paranoid illnesses, including early onset psychosis.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Assessment and management for adults presenting with disordered eating.
Relationship, marital and psychosexual difficulties, with a family-systems sensibility.
Assessment and advice on alcohol misuse and prescription drug dependency. Complex or high-dependency cases may require referral to a specialist addiction service.
How culture, class and religion shape presentation and treatment of mental illness.
Where I Practise
Consultations are available in person, by secure video, or by telephone. New patients are welcome by self-referral, GP referral or insurer authorisation.
Primary clinic
High Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex IG9 5HX
Common Questions
The simplest way is to contact the Medical Outpatient Department at The Holly (Nuffield Health) directly. You are also welcome to email my PA, Carol Beard, who will be happy to help.
An initial assessment usually lasts around 60 to 90 minutes. We will talk through what brings you to see me, your history, and any past treatment. I will then share my understanding of what is going on, and we will discuss what might help — whether that is a psychological approach, medication, or both. Where helpful, family members or partners can be involved.
Yes. I am recognised by major UK medical insurers including BUPA, AXA and Vitality. Most insurers will cover consultations and treatment subject to your individual policy terms. Please check authorisation with your insurer before your first visit.
Fees are available on request. Please contact my PA for current pricing for initial and follow-up consultations. Insured patients are usually billed directly via their provider.
Yes. In-person consultations take place at The Holly (Nuffield Health, Buckhurst Hill). Secure video and telephone appointments are also available where clinically appropriate.
Yes. Consultations are confidential and your records are held securely in line with UK GDPR and GMC guidance. Information is only shared with your GP, treating clinicians or insurer with your consent. The very limited exceptions to confidentiality — such as serious risk to life — will be discussed with you openly.
Contact & Booking
New enquiries are welcome by self-referral, GP referral or insurer authorisation. To book, contact the Medical Outpatient Department at The Holly (Nuffield Health), or reach my PA, Carol Beard, directly by email or phone.
Recognised by BUPA, AXA, Vitality and other major UK medical insurers.