What we do
Psych & Soma provides clinical psychology services that consider the reciprocal connection between mind and body for individuals and professionals.
Psych
the mind, inner world & meaning.
Soma
the body, feeling & experience
We are not one or the other.
We are both.
Emotions are not confined to our mind.
We are all familiar with common ways that ours emotions can be experienced physically through tears, butterflies in our stomach, or a racing heart. However, did you know that our psychological experience can also influence the way important bodily systems function? This does not mean such symptoms any less ‘real’ but highlights the powerful role that psychological processes play in shaping physical experiences.
Physical symptoms are not limited to the body.
The way we interpret physical symptoms, and the beliefs we have about our physical health can also influence the way we experience sensations in our body, pain or illness. It is therefore understandable that our physical health impacts the way we think and feel, too. Living with a physical health problem can also influence the way we relate to our own body, healthcare systems, professionals involved in our care, and our own families.
Meet our founder
Hello, my name is Dr Grace Bamber, BSc (Hons), MSc, DClinPsy. I am a Clinical Psychologist registered with the HCPC (Registration number: PYL044680). I have worked in a range of mental health provisions for over 10 years and my consistent interest has been adult mental health.
I currently work within an NHS hospital for physical health problems. I have expertise in the link between mental and physical health, and the psychological impact of healthcare and/or workplace systems. As a woman and NHS employee, I have lived experience of navigating imperfect healthcare systems, and I also strive to bring psychological concepts to community settings. This inspired me to set up Psych & Soma as a place to be seen, holistically understood, and connected.
Allowing me to hear your story, and be part of your journey to overcome challenges and foster a personally meaningful life is truly a privilege. It connects strongly to my personal values and I can’t imagine doing any other job. I am not a ‘blank slate’ psychologist, and strive to bring authenticity, humanity and connection to your therapeutic space, while simultaneously holding therapeutic boundaries and ethical standards to promote psychological safety and trust.