Dr Kerri Walster

Hi! I’m Kerri and I’m a Clinical Psychologist.

I have over fifteen years’ experience working with children, young people and families across a range of NHS and specialist services, from early childhood through to adolescence. I have particular interests in child development, attachment, parenting and family relationships, and have also supported families during and after pregnancy, and in the early years of a child’s life.

I have worked with children, young people and families experiencing a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety and low mood, emotional and behavioural difficulties, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, bereavement and significant life events or transitions. I also have experience supporting children and young people with developmental, learning and neurodevelopmental differences.

Alongside my clinical psychology training, I have undertaken further training in Dynamic Interpersonal Therapy (brief psychodynamic therapy model for adults), the Incredible Years Toddler Parenting Programme and Video Intervention for Positive Parent-Infant Relationships and Sensitive Discipline (VIPP-SD). I am also trained in Autism (ADOS and ADI-R) and ADHD assessment.

The decision to begin therapy can feel a little daunting, so I aim to create a therapeutic space that feels thoughtful, warm and non-judgemental. The initial sessions will be an opportunity for us to develop an understanding together of what has brought you, your child or your family to therapy, what you would like to be different, and whether working together feels like the right fit.

I aim to work collaboratively and at a pace that feels manageable. I recognise that people do not always come to therapy with a clear or single problem. Sometimes things have become difficult, familiar patterns are no longer working, or you would like help to understand yourself, your child or your relationships differently. I also take time to notice what is working well, including moments of connection and understanding, and the strengths that you or your family already have. We can then think together about how these can be built upon.

With children, therapy may involve play, drawing and talking, depending on their age and individual needs. Sometimes working directly with a child is most helpful, while at other times meeting with parents or family may be the most effective way of supporting a child.

I hope that the people and families I work with feel listened to, understood and safe to explore difficult things.

I take an integrative approach, adapting therapy according to the individual, child or family and what they need. I am interested in helping people make sense of their difficulties, including how earlier relationships and experiences can shape the way we understand ourselves, relate to others and experience challenges in the present.

For some people, therapy may be relatively practical, structured and short-term (around 6–16 sessions), while for others it may be more exploratory and take place over a longer period. I draw on different therapeutic approaches according to what feels most helpful for the person I am working with.

I also work with parents and couples where relationships, parenting, separation, family change or communication difficulties are affecting family life. I have a particular interest in supporting couples and families to understand patterns that may have become difficult or stuck, and to think together about what might help things feel different.

I currently work part-time as a Specialist Clinical Psychologist in the NHS alongside my private practice. I have experience leading specialist pathways and providing supervision to other clinicians, and undertake regular supervision and further training to ensure my practice remains informed by current guidance, research and evidence.

Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy travelling and experiencing different cultures, art and music, spending time outdoors, and connecting with family and friends.