Dr Nicola Wheeler

Having become interested in dementia care as a result of personal experiences, Nikki completed her undergraduate Psychology degree at the University of Birmingham.  She carried out research projects with people with dementia and their families and friends, and undertook a Masters in Psychological Research Methods.  She has worked clinically with younger and older people with memory problems and dementia, and is trained in psychological group interventions for people with dementia including cognitive stimulation therapy and Sonas.    Owing to an interest in systemic family therapy, she undertook Association of Family Therapy qualifications whilst completing her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Plymouth University.  Nikki has experience of working in mental health services including inpatient and crisis settings, and in a specialist neuro rehabilitation and brain injury inpatient setting.  Completion of neuropsychological and capacity assessments have been core aspects of her work, as well as formulating how thoughts, feelings, behaviours and experiences impact each other and cause distress.  In her clinical work, Nikki regularly draws on narrative and other systemic therapy approaches, as well as compassion focused therapy, but works integratively to meet individualised need and presentations.  In addition to working directly with clients, Nikki provides carer support and psychoeducation to family, friends and carers.

Nikki has a number of published papers including with people with dementia and in dementia care, a systematic review looking at transitions from children’s to adult mental health services, and services and support for people who identify as LGBT+, and she has presented at a number of conferences.  She is most interetesed in qualitative research, especially ethnographic approaches, aiming to understand more about people’s unqiue experiences. 

Nikki is a chartered Clinical Psychologist with the British Psychological Society and is a registered Psychologist with HCPC.  Currently, she is completing post doctorate qualifications in neuropsychology with the University of Bristol.  In her previous post, Nikki was delighted to act as a consultant to Coronation Street on their storyline around Shona’s brain injury.