Rachel is Iron Mill's Academic Director and the Course Lead for Foundation Degree (FdA) in Integrative Counselling and the BA (Hons) in Integrative Counselling which is validated by University of Worcester. Rachel spent several years in university teaching and research in the UK and Europe before retraining as a psychotherapist.  Her academic research focussed on intersubjectivity and relationships, looking at how infants and young animals develop through one-to-one interactions with caregivers.  

A post-doc fellowship in Italy provided an opportunity to look at differences in mirror neuron development in neurodiversity, psychopathology, and trauma. Subsequent research explored the role of play in scaffolding social development.  Having become interested in working therapeutically, Rachel completed an MA in mindfulness-oriented Psychotherapy at the Karuna Institute.  

Since training, Rachel has run a busy private practice alongside work for various agencies. She is involved in ecotherapy trainings at Karuna Dartmoor and facilitates peer support groups for the families of people experiencing psychosis.  In her practice, Rachel's specialist interests centre on adult ADHD, sexuality, and gender.  

Away from work, Rachel is a parent, sea swimmer, and basket-maker. 

Qualifications: Masters in Psychotherapy, PhD in Cognitive Science.

Role(s): Course lead and on the Foundation Degree (FdA) in Integrative Counselling and BA (Hons) in Integrative Counselling

Email:  rachel.wood@ironmill.co.uk

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