Hello, I am Alison Harper, current lead therapist at Harper Psychology, one of the longest established practices in Edinburgh.

My passion for therapy started back in 1996, when I worked as an assistant psychologist with two in-patients, one suffering profound depression and the other severe OCD.

Through helping these clients on a daily basis over the course of a year, I learnt the extent to which mental health problems can engulf individuals - but also how therapeutic tools can make a real difference to their outcomes.

On completing my clinical psychology training in 2000, I worked in the NHS before setting up a private practice.

Over the last 24 years, I have continued to learn through experience, helping clients understand and gain control of their mental health.

Since 2016, I have worked with Sara, who is originally CBT trained and who has helped develop the practice further.

In early 2020, the onset of the covid pandemic triggered a marked increase in mental health difficulties, particularly in young adults, with demand for services far exceeding supply.

In response, we expanded the practice, blending our expertise and experience with that of younger therapists, who demonstrate excellent outcomes, particularly with children and young adults.

Harper Psychology currently has a team of six permanent, full-time therapists. I am proud of the passion and commitment that my colleagues Sara, Emma, Ashleigh, Dylan and Karyn show: their never-ending enthusiasm for learning and helping clients will undoubtedly ensure the development of the practice further.