I have three overlapping research interests.

First, I am interested in psychosis. Through our research we have developed pioneering psychological models to help understand experiences such as hearing voices (‘auditory hallucinations’) and paranoia, and new psychological therapies to reduce the suffering of people with psychosis.

Second, I am interested in the therapeutic potential of mindfulness. I have led research looking at mindfulness-based interventions for multiple-sclerosis, for persistent depression, and for psychosis (we originated mindfulness for psychosis). Through our new Bath Centre for Mindfulness and Compassion we are committed to researching the benefits of mindfulness training for university students and staff. 

Third, I am interested in understanding more about the subjective experience of people as they live with and recover from mental health problems. For example, why do so many people feel dehumanised by their experience of psychosis? Or in mindfulness-based therapies, how important are non-specific group factors such as group cohesion and altruism?  

My main teaching interests and responsibilities relate to the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, where I am the programme director.

I am Director of the Bath Centre for Mindfulness and Compassion (BCMC)

Yes