Areas of specialty My main area of speciality is eating disorders. I have extensive experience in treating clients with bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa and binge eating disorder. I have co-authored two books on the treatment of eating disorders, as well as published research in this field. I teach students, and speak to local, national and international audiences about eating disorders. My other area of specialty is anxiety disorders. I worked at a specialist clinic treating anxiety disorders in London. I often treat anxiety problems in the context of an eating disorder.

Academic Qualifications

BA (University of Canterbury)
MA (1st Class Honours) (University of Canterbury)
Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology (University of Canterbury)

Professional Qualification

I am registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board in the Clinical Scope of Practice

Professional Affiliations

Member of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists (NZCCP)
Member British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies

Experience and current work environments

I have eleven years experience in treating mental health problems in New Zealand and in England. I worked for five years at the St. Georges Eating Disorders Service, South West London and St. George’s NHS trust. I also worked for one year at the Cognitive Behavioural Unit, South West London and St. George’s NHS trust. This is a specialist unit offering both in- and outpatient services for the treatment of anxiety disorders. I currently work for the South Island Eating Disorders Service, CDHB, and also in private practice at The Anxiety Clinic and Centre for Cognitive Behaviour therapy.

Approach to the work

I work as part of The Anxiety Clinic and Centre for Cognitive Behavior Therapy. This is a friendly and confidential service that aims to offer the most effective “talking treatment”,

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)

for those suffering from eating disorders and anxiety problems. This group of psychologists is committed to using the most up to date research & working collaboratively with our clients to reduce distress and enhance well being.

Fees and services

I charge $140 per 50-minute session

Availability

I offer evening appointments

Articles of interest written for this website

Does thinness make you happy?

Contact details

Rachel Lawson
The Anxiety Clinic and Centre for Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
P.O. Box 21-264
Christchurch 8143
Telephone: (03) 377 9996
Fax: (03) 3779993
Mobile: 021 02708906
email: rachel@christchurchpsychology.co.nz
Website:www.theanxietyclinic.co.nz