Michelle Kiernan
D.Phil, D.Clin.Psy, C. Psychol.
I qualified as a clinical psychologist in 2002 and went on to work in NHS child and adolescent mental health services in Birmingham until 2021. I now offer private consultations to children and families who may find this a more convenient way to access the help they need.
In my clinical work I stick with evidence-based practice, but I also like to be creative and flexible with children and their families. I believe it is important to listen carefully to your concerns, develop a shared understanding of the difficulties and work together with you to make changes.
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I see children individually, parents on their own or the family together, depending on what is needed. I am happy to offer a one-off consultation or more regular appointments.
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I am a BABCP accredited CBT therapist and a registered practitioner psychologist with the HCPC.
The small print...
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Appointments last for up to one hour.
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The fee for an online appointment is £100
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The fee for a face-to-face appointment is £110
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Please give at least 24 hours notice if you can't make it to avoid a cancellation fee.
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I can help with a variety of emotional and behavioural problems that children and young people experience. This includes issues such as:
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worries, panic, anxiety and phobias
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low mood and depression
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the effects of stressful or traumatic life events (sometimes called PTSD)
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obsessive or ritualistic behaviours (sometimes called OCD)
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repetitive behaviours such as tics
I usually use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to help with these types of problems as this is well-supported by the research evidence. CBT is a type of talking therapy which focusses on the connections between what we think, feel and do. I use CBT with the young person and their family to understand their difficulties and work towards achieving their goals.
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I can also help with emotional distress which can occur in response to stressful life events such as exams, changing schools or when a young person is struggling with their confidence or self-esteem. Once we have understood the problem affecting the young person, I can help them develop strategies to understand and regulate their emotions or better manage stressful situations.
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I am trained in the Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication Disorders (DISCO), and have worked extensively with autistic children and those with ADHD. This means that I can consider the impact any neurodiversity might be having on a child or young person's difficulties, and can adapt my interventions accordingly. I also offer parent-only sessions to help support parents post-diagnosis.
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For parents looking for guidance and advice, I am trained in ‘Triple P’, the Positive Parenting Programme. I can help you understand your children’s behaviour, teach them new behaviour, use effective discipline and take care of yourself as a parent.
Contact Me
I offer appointments on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. I only have limited availability after school (4pm) and do not offer evening or weekend appointments.
I offer both online sessions and face-to-face appointments in clinic rooms in Kings Heath.
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Email for more information or to book an appointment.
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