Dr Toni Pikoos – Clinical Psychologist

BSc (Hons), PhD (Clinical Psychology)

I am a Clinical Psychologist who adopts a warm and empathic approach, working collaboratively with clients to overcome their difficulties, achieve their goals and promote their unique strengths. I am passionate about working with adolescents (13+) and adults to address external and internal struggles and to identify new avenues for personal growth.

With a PhD specialising in Body Dysmorphic Disorder and prior experience in an eating disorder treatment program, I am passionate about working with individuals to develop their confidence, as well as healthy and sustainable relationships with their bodies, food, exercise and ageing.

I have experience working with adolescents and adults with a variety of difficulties including:

  • Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
  • Eating Disorders and individuals wanting to improve their relationship with food
  • Individuals wanting to improve their relationship with food in a non-diet framework
  • Body image concerns
  • Supportive decision-making and assessment prior to undergoing cosmetic surgery
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Depression
  • Stress
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Anxiety conditions (generalized anxiety, panic attacks, health anxiety)
  • Social anxiety disorder
  • Psychosis and auditory hallucinations
  • Grief and loss
  • School and workplace stress
  • Relationship difficulties

My preferred treatment modality is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), whereby I assist clients to modify their unhelpful thinking styles leading to positive behavioural outcomes. I also like to draw on Compassion-Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to empower clients to identify their values and goals and to enhance the meaning in their lives.

I am also trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy – Enhanced (CBT-E) and Family Based Therapy (FBT) for eating disorders, as well as Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM) for the treatment of anorexia nervosa. I am a Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned practitioner, which means that I practice within a weight-inclusive framework and promote and celebrate body diversity. I will make sure to discuss these treatment options with you to work out what might be the best approach, tailored to your individual preferences.

I also offer one-off assessments and supportive decision-making sessions for clients who are considering cosmetic surgery, or who have been recommended to have a psychological evaluation by their cosmetic practitioner. These sessions can include a report back to the cosmetic practitioner, or the option of further psychological treatment if it may be of benefit.