The last blog we did covered the Training and Development available to our Foster Carers, so in this one we thought we would introduce you to one of our trainers in a little more detail.

At The Acorns we offer an excellent training programme, some of which is mandatory and must be completed within 12 months of approval, with the remainder being optional. We adapt our training programme to meet new demands and changes in legislation and are committed to providing high quality, relevant subject matter delivered by specialist trainers who are experts in their field.

Our consultant clinical psychologist Dr Nikki Hill delivers a 12-week course exploring attachment theory based on the secure base model expounded by Kim Golding. We feel that investment in our Foster Carers is never wasted and that high quality training ultimately pays for itself in improving outcomes for our children and young people. Following is part of Nikki’s biography that clearly outlines Nikki’s credentials and reinforces why we use her. You can read more where this exert has come from: http://www.aspirepsychologicalservicesltd.co.uk/team/dr-nikki-hill/

Dr Nikki Hill, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Founder and Director (DClinPsy, MSc, BSc [Hons]):

“I started my career and passion for working with looked after children as a residential worker at a residential school in Aberdeen in 2003. After qualifying as a clinical psychologist in 2010, I have continued my passion for working with LAC and spent a number of years working in looked after children services, both within the NHS and private sector.

During my time in the NHS I worked within the County Durham Local Authority Treatment Foster Care Programme before moving to take over the role of Clinical Lead within Darlington CAMHS. I then took up the post of Clinical Director within a national independent agency, working across fostering and residential services and taking the lead on service development and evaluation, design and implementation of the clinical services programme, management of a team of clinicians and chairing of care governance meetings within the company.

Throughout my many roles I have gained experience of and an interest in working with children and young people with highly complex social, emotional, behavioural and mental health needs; in particular those who are looked after and adopted and who have experienced significant trauma and attachment related difficulties. I am passionate about supporting and developing the knowledge and skills of those who care for children and young people with attachment difficulties through training and consultation as well as providing therapy for the young people. I believe in a whole system approach and the importance of promoting positive, nurturing attachment relationships between young people and their carers to support the young person in recovering from their trauma.

I have received training in a number of therapeutic models including EMDR, CBT, DBT and play therapy, but have a special interest in Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Attachment Focused Therapy and using horses to support people who struggle with traditional talking therapies.”