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# Altum Health

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [GLP-1s and the ‘Summer Body’: Strong and Healthy Come in Many Sizes](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/glp-1-holiday/): Why the thin ideal is making a comeback this summer and what a ‘summer body’ really means
- [Shapeshifting from Eating Disorder to Compulsive Exercise: What I Wish This Crazy Little Rainbow Girl Had Known Sooner](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/shapeshifting-from-eating-disorder-to-compulsive-exercise/): This is the story of how the eating disorder didn’t disappear; it shapeshifted. And for a long time, exercise was exactly where it hid.
- [How Understanding AuDHD Brought the Crazy Little Rainbow Girl Back From Atypical Anorexia](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/audhd-atypical-anorexia-recovery/): A personal reflection on late diagnosed AuDHD, masking, atypical anorexia, and finding myself on the other side.
- [Do You Have to Know Your Weight to Be Fully Recovered from an Eating Disorder?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/a-clinicians-view-on-weight-in-recovery/): I trained in CBT-E. I believe in exposure therapy. I have spent twenty years helping people recover from eating disorders using structured, evidence-based approaches. And yet, increasingly, I find myself questioning one of the field's most entrenched assumptions: that full recovery requires a person to know their weight.
- [The Role of Community in Eating Disorder Recovery](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/community-eating-disorder-recovery-edaw-2026/): This year’s Eating Disorders Awareness Week theme is Community. It’s a word we hear so often that it can lose its meaning. But when you’re living with an eating disorder, or rebuilding your life during recovery, community is anything but ordinary. It can be the difference between staying stuck in an eating disorder and finding your way forward.
- [ GLP-1 Medications: What the Psychological Work Actually Looks Like ](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/psychological-work-glp-1-medication/): You've probably noticed the explosion of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro in the news, on social media, perhaps even in conversations with friends and family. As an eating disorders service, we're often asked: What's our position on these medications? 
- [Navigating Eating Disorder Recovery in a Weight Loss Medication World](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/weight-loss-medication/): To understand why the rise of GLP-1 medications feels so intense for some people, particularly those navigating eating disorder recovery, it helps to understand what these drugs do. We often refer to them as appetite suppressants, but the mechanisms behind these weight loss medications extend far beyond appetite alone. 
- [Supporting A Loved One At Christmas With ARFID ](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/supporting-a-loved-one-at-christmas-arfid/): But if someone you love has ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), the festive season can be one of the most challenging parts of the year. Not because they don’t appreciate the effort or the sentiment behind the meal, but because their relationship with food is complex, and their thoughts around food are far from joy and excitement. For many, ARFID can trigger intense sensory reactions, feelings of disgust, or a complete lack of interest in food that makes certain meals feel overwhelming, frightening, or physically impossible to manage.  
- [Twenty Years of Altum Health: Reflections on Change in the Eating Disorders Landscape](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/twenty-years-altum-health/): As Altum Health turns twenty, I've found myself reflecting on just how much has changed, not only in our practice, but in the wider world of eating disorders. The past two decades have brought enormous progress: in how we understand recovery, how we train professionals, how we talk about bodies, and how we think about weight. It's been a privilege to witness - and to grow alongside this transformation.
- [Rebuilding Self Trust and Identity Without Eating Disorder Rules](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/rebuilding-identity-eating-disorder/): Most people expect that when they engage in recovery, the eating disorder voice will get quieter. Unfortunately, at least for a little while, that's not quite right. In fact, for some time, it gets incessantly louder.
- [Grieving Your Eating Disorder: When Letting Go Feels Like Losing Yourself](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/grieving-eating-disorder/): What’s the biggest surprise people often have in eating disorder recovery? 
- [Quasi-Recovery in Anorexia: The In-Between Stage No One Talks About](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/quasi-recovery-in-anorexia/): One of the major obstacles in quasi-recovery is how certain behaviours remain hidden in plain sight, not because they are harmless, but because they are socially accepted or even encouraged. This could include behaviours such as:
- [Reimagining care for long-standing eating disorders](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/long-standing-eating-disorders/): In this post, we explore the complexities and challenges of long-standing eating disorders, the importance of structured, ongoing support for both patients and their caregivers, and what future care could look like for LSED. But first…
- [Ozempic and eating disorders: The missing truth](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/ozempic-eating-disorders/): However, as demand soars and availability expands through private routes and online clinics, the conversation around Ozempic and eating disorders is becoming increasingly complex. 
- [Understanding Family-Based Therapy (FBT) for Eating Disorders](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/family-based-therapy-for-eating-disorders/): Family-Based Therapy (FBT) offers a clear and compassionate structure to help families become central to recovery. Recognised as a leading evidence-based treatment for young people with eating disorders, FBT redefines how we think about recovering from an eating disorder. It's not something that the individual has to face on their own. Instead, it is a structured approach that sees the family unit as a system and resource. This allows for collaboration, empowerment, and supports collective change to step into eating disorder recovery.  
- [Therapeutic letter writing in eating disorder recovery](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/therapeutic-letter-writing/): Here's how something as simple as putting pen to paper could help you make sense of your feelings
- [Bridging the Gap: Cultural Understandings of Mental Health in South Asian Communities](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/bridging-the-gap/): A blog by Dr Neema Chudasama continuing our series of how culture impacts mental health
- [Ketamine treatment in 2025: Revolutionary hope for eating disorders or too soon to tell?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/ketamine-treatment/): Dr Courtney considers the safety and effectiveness of this new treatment option
- [Food and culture: Let’s talk](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/food-and-culture/): How culture shapes your approach to food and body image
- [Body checking on social media: why it’s so dangerous](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/body-checking-on-social-media/): Sara Baig outlines the dangers of body checking trends on social media
- [Understanding RED-S: Balancing sporting performance with health](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/symptoms-of-red-s/): RED-S is a disorder that affects athletes and dancers. Learn about its symptoms and how to recover.
- [Eating disorder treatment with Autism – what to expect](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/eating-disorder-treatment-with-autism/): May, a former client explains how to handle treatment for Eating Disorders when you also have autism
- [How can you get the right therapist?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/right-therapist/): Our tips and advice on finding the perfect therapist for you
- [Coping with exam stress: our expert tips](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/exam-stress/): Exam stress: practical ways to help manage the stress of taking GCSEs and A-levels.
- [BMI: Is it a relevant measure of health?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/bmi-measure-of-health/): Discover why we believe BMI to be problematic for those living with an eating disorder and what we think would be a more helpful approach to gauging health and wellbeing.
- [Using the word ‘Triggered’: What’s the harm?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/the-word-triggered/): Using the word 'triggered' a lot? Here's why it could be upsetting your friends or family.
- [What is ARFID? How can you get help?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/what-is-arfid/): The diagnosis and treatment methods for ARFID, how it differs from other eating disorders, and a first-hand account of the experience of having and being treated for the condition written by one of our clients.
- [The link between decision-making and eating disorders](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/decision-making-and-eating-disorders/): We've discovered there's a link between decision-making and eating disorders. Here's how it could affect you.
- [Unwrapping the psychology of gift giving and eating disorders](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/psychology-of-gift-giving-and-eating-disorders/): Do you struggle to receive gifts? Here's why some people living with an eating disorder find it hard to accept gifts.
- [Diagnosing ADHD in adults](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/adhd-in-adults/): ADHD in adults is often overlooked or misdiagnosed. In this article Dr Lauren Coles shares the symptoms, treatments, how we diagnose it, and how it impacts eating disorders.
- [How nature allied psychotherapy can help with eating disorder recovery](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/nature-allied-psychotherapy/): Nature allied psychotherapy one of the tools we use to support recovery from eating disorders. Learn how in this blog post by Nicole Worrica.
- [Going to university with an eating disorder: is your child ready?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/university-with-an-eating-disorder/): Dr Melissa Lotmore’s guidance on supporting your child through starting university with an eating disorder
- [Our best advice for coping with exam results anxiety](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/coping-with-exam-results-anxiety/): Dr Nicole Hudson shares her advice on difficult thoughts and feelings as exam results time gets closer
- [Going on holiday with an eating disorder](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/going-on-holiday-with-an-eating-disorder/): Going on holiday with an eating disorder often presents a number of challenges. In this post Dr Amy Harrison gives her advice on how to have a relaxing holiday, despite these challenges.
- [Choosing an eating disorder clinic: 5 key things to look for](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/choosing-an-eating-disorder-clinic-5-key-things-to-look-for/): In this post, we’ll share the key things to consider, the red flags to look out for, and the questions to ask to help you when you’re choosing an eating disorder clinic that’s right for you and your needs.
- [Your eating disorder and the internet. A toxic mix?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/technology-and-eating-disorders/): Learn how technology can be both a help and a hindrance for eating disorders.
- [The pros and cons of using a food diary for eating disorders](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/food-diary-for-eating-disorders/): Wondering whether a food diary could help you? We unpack the pros and cons in this blog post
- [Let’s talk: eating disorders in men](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/eating-disorders-in-men/): The stigma surrounding eating disorders in men, the impact this can have, and what can be done about it.
- [8 reasons to choose Altum Health](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/8-reasons-to-choose-altum-health/): Why do clients choose us? Find out in this post...
- [Expert tips for managing Christmas anxiety triggers with an eating disorder](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/christmas-anxiety/): The festive season can be a huge source of anxiety, especially for anyone with an eating disorder. Learn how to manage it in this post.
- [Why it’s ok to make mistakes](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/mistakes/): Making mistakes is part of life, but ruminating on them can impact your mental health. Learn how to reframe your mistakes.
- [Understanding motivation to change in eating disorders](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/motivation-to-change/): Sometimes it's extremely difficult to implement the solutions we know need to happen, learn how we work through 'motivation to change' during eating disorder therapy.
- [Dealing with Diabulimia? Discover the symptoms and how we treat this condition](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/diabulimia/): Diabulimia is a type of disordered eating behaviour that only affects people living with type 1 diabetes. Find out more about how it affects these people in this blog post.
- [Still waiting for eating disorder treatment from the NHS? Here’s why…](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/eating-disorder-treatment-from-the-nhs/): The reasons why you've been waiting for such a long time for treatment and how we can help.
- [An open letter to expectant mothers struggling with changes](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/expectant-mothers/): Dr Amy Crossley-Lewis shares her thoughts on how the body changes that come with pregnancy affected her.
- [Could your eating disorder be masking the signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/asd-and-eating-disorders/): Dr Amy Harrison explains the link between Autism Spectrum Disorder and eating disorders. We look at the similarities, differences, and why and how ED treatment should be adapted for people with ASD. 
- [Try at home: 3 gentle yoga poses to support your eating disorder recovery](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/yoga-poses/): Learn 3 gentle yoga poses to help you feel calm, soothed, and energised.
- [Embodied yoga practice – what is it, and how can it help to support your eating disorder recovery?](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/embodied-yoga-practice/): Jacqui Finnigan explains how embodied yoga practice can support recovery from an eating disorder, by offering a gentle way of starting to connect with and trust your body again.
- [How to get the right binge eating disorder treatment from your GP](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/binge-eating-disorder-treatment/): Learn how to talk to your GP about binge eating disorder so that you get the right treatment from your GP
- [Dealing with Covid anxiety over the festive period](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/dealing-with-covid-anxiety-over-the-festive-period/): We are all used to hearing how Christmas is a time of cheer and joy, but the expectation to be happy means it can be the most anxious time of all for many. Dr Courtney told 5 News why we should not feel pressure to stay jolly all through the season.

## Pages
- [Weight Management & GLP-1 Support](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/weight-management-glp-1-support/): Weight management and eating disorder recovery are often assumed to be in conflict. But at Altum Health, we see this as part of the same conversation, not a competing one.
- [Contact Us](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/contact-us/): Feel free to contact us about any queries you have, and find out more about our practice here.
- [Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/adhd/): Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects both children and adults. It is one of the most common childhood disorders, but it can persist into adulthood for many people. At Altum Health, we only treat adults who suspect that they have this condition, using robust diagnostic tools to help us make an informed assessment. 
- [Autism](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/autism/): Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is a lifelong developmental condition which can be caused by a variety of genetic and physical factors that affect brain development.
- [Thank You](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/eating-disorder-family-guide/thank-you/): Your guide is on its way to your inbox right now. 
- [Living With an Eating Disorder in Your Family](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/eating-disorder-family-guide/): When you suspect your child or family member has an eating disorder, it’s really hard to know how to help them. Your worst fear is that whatever you suggest might just compound the issue further.
- [Therapy Assessment Clinic](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/assessment/): If you’re under 18, coming to us with a long history, or we need more information to fully understand your needs, we may recommend you come see us for an assessment so that we can develop a cohesive and collaborative treatment plan. An assessment clinic is a meeting designed to help gather all the information we need to better understand your struggles, think together about what you need, design a treatment plan for you, and make recommendations about who can best provide the care you need. This information is then summarised in a report which we will send to you and, with your permission, to any other professionals involved in your care.For some people, the 20-minute consultation isn't enough time to gather the information we need to be able to recommend the best treatment and care moving forward.
- [Careers](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/therapist-careers/): Demand for support with mental health conditions is growing like never before. As a fast-growing practice, we’re always looking for wonderful people to join our team. If you have a passion for supporting people struggling with eating disorders, but also with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health conditions, we’d love to hear from you. 
- [Partnerships](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/partnerships/): Over the years, we have built upon our expertise in the treatment of eating disorders, and developed specialist knowledge and skills in the psychological care of clients attending weight management and bariatric services. We’ve developed longstanding partnerships with NHS Tier 3 and Tier 4 services where we provide a wide range of specialist evidence-based interventions, including: psychological assessments, group interventions, psychological consultations and training to multidisciplinary teams.
- [Media Coverage](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/media-coverage/): Media CoverageWe are often called upon by the media to share our thoughts on mental health topics. Here’s a selection of the coverage in which we have recently been featured.
- [Newsletter](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/newsletter/): By adding your details, you understand you will be added to the mailing list and will receive regular email newsletters which may contain promotional content.
- [Payment](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/payment/): If you are paying for sessions directly, payment can be made via cheque, bank transfer, or cash or credit card.
- [Resources](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/resources/): The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) is a non-profit, American organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders. NEDA is dedicated to providing education, resources and support to those affected by eating disorders.
- [Terms & Conditions](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/terms-conditions/): Please contact us as soon as possible to let us know if you would like to cancel an appointment. Should you cancel with less than 48 business hours' notice before your appointment or do not attend a scheduled appointment without notice, you will be charged the full price of the session.  Should you miss more than two consecutive sessions, you will need to pay a holding fee of 50% of your session fee from the third session onward. This is to ensure your therapist will hold a space for you upon your return. Should we need to cancel or reschedule an appointment with you, we will endeavour to provide you with as much notice as possible.
- [Cookie Policy](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/cookie-policy/): If you want to check or change what types of cookies you accept, this can usually be altered within your browser settings. You can block cookies at any time by activating the setting on your browser that allows you to refuse the setting of all or some cookies. However, if you use your browser settings to block all cookies (including essential cookies) you may not be able to access all or parts of our site.
- [Service Privacy Policy](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/service-privacy-policy/): This privacy notice provides you with details of how we collect and process your sensitive and personal data for our service.
- [Our Clients](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/our-clients/): Here’s what some of our recent clients had to say about their experience of working with us and how the Altum Health therapists have helped them to move forward with life.
- [Eating Disorders](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/issues-we-help-with/eating-disorders/): Eating disorders and disordered eating patterns are serious problems that have become increasingly more common over the past 30 years. They are responsible for more loss of life than any other psychological problem.
- [Fees](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/fees/): You can access our services by contacting us directly and making an appointment. We also accept referrals from other health practitioners including GPs and Psychiatrists. While you do not need a GP or Psychiatry referral to make an appointment, a referral may be necessary if you are claiming through private insurance. If this is the case, simply ask your referrer to send a letter to us with your contact details and some brief information regarding your reason for seeking our services. Once we receive your referral, we will contact you within 24 hours to arrange an appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about the referral process, please contact us and we will be happy to help.
- [FAQs](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/faqs/): All of our therapy sessions are treated in utmost confidence. If you are over 18, we do not discuss your treatment with anybody outside of your treatment team unless we believe you are a risk to yourself or other people and we cannot come up with a way to otherwise keep you or them safe. Even here, we will discuss our concerns with you ahead of time. If you are under 18, we will always discuss with you any discussions we might have with your relatives, and explore together what information feels OK to share.
- [Body Image Difficulties](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/issues-we-help-with/body-image-difficulties/): Most of us spend some time in front of the mirror checking our appearance. How we feel about our appearance is part of our self-image, and it’s perfectly natural to take care of our bodies and be interested in the way we look. At some points in our lives, many of us will also experience some level of dissatisfaction with some aspect of the way we look. This can be especially true during adolescence when our bodies and appearance go through lots of changes.Although many of us feel dissatisfied with some aspect of our appearance, these worries usually don’t constantly occupy our thoughts or cause us to feel tormented. For some people, concerns about appearance become extreme and upsetting. Some people become so focused on imagined or minor imperfections in their looks that they can’t seem to stop checking or obsessing about their appearance. Being constantly preoccupied and upset about body image, imperfections or appearance flaws is called body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).
- [Trauma](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/issues-we-help-with/trauma/): Trauma symptoms can occur when you experience frightening or distressing events that are life threatening, or where there is a significant threat to your physical or psychological wellbeing.
- [Anxiety](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/issues-we-help-with/anxiety/): Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, which can be mild or severe. It is a normal, if unpleasant, part of life, and it can affect us all in different ways and at different times. And while all of us experience healthy anxiety from time-to-time, some people find it difficult to control their worries, and experience more constant levels of anxiety that affect daily life.Our bodies are ‘biologically wired’ to experience anxiety in response to threat, and so when we are presented with a situation that we interpret as potentially dangerous, we can experience this in the ways we feel, think and behave.
- [Stress](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/issues-we-help-with/stress/): The pressures of modern life can often lead you to feel stressed. While some levels of stress keep us motivated and driving towards our goals, stress levels that are too high or go on for too long can lead to significant physical and mental health issues. Problematic stress may lead you to feel very low or anxious. You may notice that you react more intensely to things and are more tearful, sensitive or irritable than normal. Stress may also lead you to withdraw from others and feel very alone with your struggles.You may find your thinking is affected by prolonged or intense levels of stress. You may find it harder to make decisions, get more easily confused, have difficulty concentrating, or notice that your memory is uncharacteristically poor. If you are stressed, you may find yourself worrying about things constantly and going ‘over and over’ situations in your head. You may also feel great disappointment with yourself for not feeling able to effectively cope, and notice a loss in motivation, commitment and confidence.
- [Book a Consultation](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/book-a-consultation/): We know that most of our clients have felt this at the beginning of their relationship with us. So, we offer a free 20-minute consultation so that you can get to know us, and find out a bit more about how we could help you.
- [Blog](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/blog/)
- [Dr Courtney Raspin](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/courtney-raspin/): Courtney is the founder of Altum Health, she began her private practice in 2005 in response to the demand for qualified and experienced private clinicians who specialise in eating disorders. Among her clients and colleagues, she has established a reputation for combining sound psychological techniques with creativity, humour, and a direct approach that inspires her clients to wellness.Courtney is a Chartered Psychologist, an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society (BPS), and is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). She is a member of the Counselling Psychology division of the BPS, as well as the Clinical Psychology division’s Faculty of Eating Disorders. She is a member and active supporter of the Eating Disorders Association (BEAT) and regularly contributes to the press on matters relating to eating disorders, obesity and body image problems. In addition to her role at Altum, she lectures in the Counselling Psychology Doctoral Programme at City University.
- [Depression](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/issues-we-help-with/depression/): Everyone occasionally feels low, but these feelings are usually fleeting and pass within a couple of days. If you are affected by depression, you are not ‘just’ sad or upset. You have an illness which means that intense feeling of persistent sadness, helplessness and hopelessness are accompanied by physical effects such as sleeplessness, a loss of energy, or physical aches and pains. Clinical depression can feel overwhelming not only for the sufferer but for those around them.It’s important to remember that somebody who is clinically depressed cannot simply will themselves to feel better or just “snap out of it.” If they do not receive appropriate treatment their symptoms can continue for weeks, months, or years.
- [The Practice](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/the-practice/): We also work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, the effects of trauma, and other mental health conditions. Additionally, we offer assessments for autism and ADHD and support neurodivergent individuals with their mental health and well-being.
- [Issues We Help With](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/issues-we-help-with/): Our experienced clinicians are able to treat a broad range of mental health issues, but we specialise in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, and body image issues.
- [The Team](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/the-team/): During your initial consultation we will identify your needs, and match you with the most appropriate people from our therapy team.
- [Website Privacy Policy](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/privacy-policy/): This privacy notice provides you with details of how we collect and process your personal data through your use of our site www.altumhealth.co.uk
- [Home Page](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/): Our licensed professional therapists help you understand and manage difficulties such as anxiety, stress, panic and depression.

## Team
- [Yakun Li](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/yakun-li/): Yakun (Kun) currently completing her BSc (Hons) in Psychology at the University of Manchester and will be starting her MSc in Psychological Therapies at the University of Edinburgh, with a focus on cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for children and young people.
- [Dr Sarah Williams](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-sarah-williams/): Sarah is a Highly Specialist Counselling Psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). She completed her Doctorate at Regent’s University London, where her research focused on models of recovery from anorexia nervosa. With over a decade of clinical experience, Sarah has worked across a range of settings with children, adolescents, and adults affected by eating disorders. Her previous roles include leading a team of 20 therapists within a private inpatient child and adolescent mental health service.
- [Dr Sophie Rihm](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/sophie-rihm/): Sophie is a HCPC-registered Counselling Psychologist and completed her Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology at City, St. George's, University of London. She is also a registered member with the BACP.
- [Tamina Nothhelfer](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/tamina-nothhelfer/): Tamina Nothhelfer is a BACP accredited integrative psychotherapist. She completed her Master of Counselling at the University of Edinburgh and has particular experience working with eating disorders and trauma. Tamina is passionate about the relationships we have with each other and to food; she integrates a relational-approach into her practice.
- [Dr Charlotte Bradley](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/charlotte-bradley/): Charlotte is an HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist. She earned her Doctorate at City University, London.
- [Dr Tala Abdallah](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-tala-abdallah/): Tala is a Clinical Psychologist and is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Tala’s journey into psychology began when she initially earned her license as a Clinical Dietitian in Beirut, Lebanon, her hometown. She developed an immediate interest in taking a holistic and personalised approach to treatment.
- [Pramjit Kaur](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/pramjit-kaur/): Pramjit is a registered mental health nurse with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. She is a specialist in eating disorders and has worked on both NHS adult and CAMHS services throughout her career. She is trained in SSCM, CBT-E and MANTRA. Alongside supporting Altum Health clients, Pramjit also works at the Royal Free CAMHS service providing FT-AN and CBT-E to adolescents and their families in her role as Clinical Nurse Specialist.
- [Sabrina Chorafa](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/sabrina-chorafa/): Sabrina is a Registered Dietitian accredited by the HCPC, specialising in mental health and eating disorders therapy. She invites you to re-explore your relationship with food and body through compassionate curiosity. With extensive experience in both the NHS and private practice, she currently serves as a team lead at North London NHS Foundation Trust, overseeing one of the largest eating disorder services in the UK and delivering high-quality, person-centred care.
- [Andrea Zidkova](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/andrea-zidkova/): Andrea has been with Altum Health since the day it started, and knows just about all there is to know about the team and how we work. She is charge of all things accounting, and is primarily responsible for managing invoices, monies, and insurance queries. Andrea has a first degree in Economics, and enjoyed a long and joyful career in childcare before returning to finance. She loves working with people and animals, and enjoys keeping physically fit.
- [Louise Mackie](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/louise-mackie/): Based in North Wales, Louise has been supporting Altum Health virtually since June 2017. Louise is responsible for confirming initial appointments with new clients to Altum Health, being a main point of contact for current Altum Health clients and deals with all other general administrative queries. Louise has a degree in Psychology and Counselling Skills and is passionate about helping people and ensuring that the clients of Altum Health have a smooth and hassle free therapy process.
- [Dr Clare McFie](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-clare-mcfie/): Clare is an experienced Counselling Psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). She completed her psychology training at the University of Surrey and has 10 years' experience of delivering evidence-based therapy in inpatient, outpatient and community settings in the NHS and private sector.
- [Dr Kate Mahony](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-kate-mahony/): While born in London, Kate grew up in Ireland. There she completed her undergraduate degree in Applied Psychology at University College Cork, before moving to London to complete her master’s degree (MSc) in Applied Paediatric Neuropsychology at University College London (UCL). She then began her career within the NHS, working as an assistant psychologist in paediatric neuropsychology services assessing children with various neurological conditions, including epilepsy and traumatic brain injuries. These experiences cemented an interest in the relationship between physical and mental health. Kate began her Doctorate in clinical psychology at UCL in 2013, where her clinical placements allowed her to further develop skills in multiple therapeutic approaches, including CBT and systemic models. Her research focused on the impact of fasting on cognition.
- [Dr Jackie (Iakovina) Koutoufa](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/iakovinakoutoufa/): Iakovina is a chartered clinical psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). In addition to her work with Altum Health, Iakovina also works in the NHS in a neurodevelopmental disorders team for children and young people. Iakovina’s approach is integrative and informed by a variety of psychotherapeutic approaches. She is an accredited Cognitive-Behavioural Therapist (CBT), and draws on a range of approaches such as systemic and narrative therapies, compassion-focused therapy (CFT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Whilst led by the evidence-base, her guiding principle is the development of an authentic, trustworthy, and compassionate relationship. Iakovina strongly believes in people’s resilience and ability to overcome their difficulties through the exploration of their unique strengths and abilities in a safe and containing therapeutic space.
- [Dr Roselle Birkbeck](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-roselle-birkbeck/): Roselle earned her Doctorate at Roehampton University in London. This training has led her through a sequential absorption of existential, humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive and behavioural therapeutic approaches, culminating in an integrative approach to her practice. Placing relationship at the centre of the process, Roselle develops an individualised approach to meet the specific needs and preference of each client. She views the development of trust in the relationship as central to the healing process and aims to create a safe and nurturing environment in which the client can explore their difficulties and realise their potential.
- [Darek Lukawski](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/darek-lukawski/): Darek is a Supervision Lead, Senior Associate Counselling Psychologist, and Advanced Level Certified Schema Therapist with 18 years of experience in the mental health field. He is a member of the Psychotherapy Division of the British Psychological Society (BPS), The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and the International Society of Schema Therapy (ISST).
- [Dr Josie Nicholson](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-josie-nicholson/): Josie is a counselling psychologist who offers sensitive and personalised, psychological therapy. She is committed to developing a strong therapeutic relationship with each client in which they experience acceptance, understanding and respect.
- [Dr Amy Harrison](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-amy-harrison/): Dr Amy Harrison is a Registered Clinical Psychologist with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) and a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. Amy completed a PhD on thinking styles and emotional skills in eating disorders and King’s College London and was awarded her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology by King’s College, London. Her clinical work draws on a range of psychological models including cognitive behavioural, systemic, psychodynamic and positive psychology approaches, as well as research from cognitive neuroscience.
- [Yvonne Bishop-Weston](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/yvonne-bishop-weston/): Yvonne is a Clinical Nutritional Therapist who is registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council. She is also a member of The British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT).
- [Jacqueline Birtwisle](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/jacqueline-birtwisle/): Jacqueline is a Registered Dietitian specialising in the clinical and performance aspects of sport and exercise nutrition. She is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), a member of the British Dietetic Association (BDA), the BDA Mental Health Specialist Group and the BDA Gastroenterology Specialist Group. Jacqueline qualified with a BSc in Dietetics with State Registration from Leeds Polytechnic in 1990 and gained her MA in Working with people with Eating Disorders from the Tavistock & Portman NHS Trust in 2011. In 2014, she undertook a post-graduate course at Kings College London in the use of the low FODMAPs diet for the effective treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
- [Dr Yoav Jacob](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-yoav-jacob/): Dr Yoav Jacob has been with Altum Health for the past six years. For 5 years, he was a Consultant Psychiatrist in eating disorders at St Ann's Hospital, London, where he worked in outpatients, the day program and Iris Ward. He has 23 years of experience as a doctor and trained in the UK.
- [Dr Courtney Raspin](https://www.altumhealth.co.uk/team/dr-courtney-raspin/): Courtney is the founder of Altum Health. She began her private practice in 2005 in response to the demand for qualified and experienced private clinicians who specialise in eating disorders. Among her clients and colleagues, she has established a reputation for combining sound psychological techniques with creativity, humour, and a direct approach that inspires her clients to wellness.