Jay Richards

Jay is a Clinical Psychologist with several years of experience working with adults, adolescents and groups. Jay specialises in the assessment and treatment of mood, anxiety, substance use, trauma and personality disorders. He assists clients to manage their emotions, develop effective coping strategies and live a more rewarding and meaningful life. He applies a number of evidence-based treatment approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Solution-Focused approaches. He works with clients to develop tailored goals and management strategies which work for them.

Prior to joining the Life Matters team, Jay trained and worked as a psychologist in a number of settings including community mental health centres, mental health facilities, hospitals and correctional facilities. He also has years of experience working as a university tutor and lecturer. Jay completed his clinical training and PhD (Clinical Psychology) at the University of Newcastle. His research focus was developing an understanding of what motivates individuals to engage in healthy behaviours and what motivates them not to do this. He regularly attends professional development workshops to further develop his skills and become aware of new developments in psychological assessment and intervention. Jay is dedicated to developing collaborative therapeutic relationships grounded in mutual trust and respect. He aims to empower individuals such that they can manage problems in their lives independently and effectively.