Dr Vicky Lawson

I am a chartered Doctor of Health Psychologist with 15 years’ experience who specialises in helping people to improve their relationship with food, gain control of their eating and to break distressing cycles of dieting, overeating, and weight regain. I can also help you with stress, depression, anxiety, insomnia, self-care, self-esteem and loss. There is often a link between eating patterns and mental health. Clients can report significant improvements in depression, anxiety, low mood and stress whilst working on their relationship with food.

Alongside my private practice, I was Principal Health Psychologist in an NHS mental health service at the Maudsley Hospital, London for nearly a decade. I have also worked for Public Health England and University College London.  I have written widely on the weight management and behaviour change, both academically and for the general public, including as the co-author of “Overcoming Weight Problems”, part of the “Overcoming” series recommended by NHS England.

My treatment method is integrative, including CBT,  ACT,  psychodynamic and compassion-focussed approaches. I am trained in Dynamic Interpersonal Therapist (DIT) and E-CBT. 

Clients have often told me how important my warm, non-judgemental and direct approach is in helping them to make changes. This is vital when so much of how we feel about our bodies and eating can evoke shame, regret, confusion and anxiety. I have also been told that sessions with me can at times be quite fun. 

I am committed to non-discriminatory practice and welcome clients of all identities, cultures, faiths, sexualities and diversabilities. 

I can offer both short and long term therapy, and we can decide jointly how long we might potentially work together.  At present all sessions are offered over Zoom, phone or outdoors (London or Kent coast).

I am registered with HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council), which upholds high standards in professional codes of practice, qualification and ongoing training.