Dr Melanie Orchard

In addition to private practice, I have been working in the NHS since 2005, providing a range of psychological treatments to people who require support for their distress. I am very experienced in the practice of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which the government recommends as the first line of treatment for the majority of psychological difficulties.

ACT is a what we call a third wave cognitive behavioural therapy, and focuses on acceptance of one's internal experiences (thoughts, feelings, memories etc.) in order to move forwards and start living a life that is vibrant and meaningful. When I was undertaking my doctoral training I completed my thesis looking at the processes of change that occur in ACT, and I was particularly interested in its use with people for whom other treatments have been unsuccessful. Since qualifying as a clinical psychologist, I have developed ACT across my local NHS Trust, writing treatment protocols and providing training to other staff members.