Kia Ora! I’m Eleanor, a Clinical Psychologist originally from the UK. I spent 5 years working at the Birmingham EIP Services before moving to New Zealand in 2015. I now work at Totara House, the EI service in Christchurch. I really value my work in EI, in particular I am interested in promoting stories of hope and recovery following psychosis, the importance of art and creativity in mental wellbeing, supporting families affected by psychosis, and using acceptance and mindfulness based approaches to help people make sense of their experiences and find new ways to live a valued life even with them.

In addition to my work in NZ, I have continued collaborating with colleagues in the UK and we have written a book about recovering from a first episode of psychosis. You can find out more about the book here: https://www.routledge.com/Recovering-from-a-First-Episode-of-Psychosis-An-Integrated-Approach-to/Jackson-Baggott-Bernard-Clutterbuck-Ryles-Turner/p/book/9781138669208

I have been on the Exec of the NZEIPS since November 2015. I led the organisation of the 2017 EI Training Forum in Christchurch, and in 2018 I took on the Secretary role for the Society.

Outside of work I really love exploring the amazing places of natural beauty that New Zealand offers, both close to Christchurch and across the country when I can. You might find me walking, biking, snowboarding, taking photos, or just sitting on a hillside taking in the view!