Dr Joanna Shearer, D.Clin.Psy, M.Sc. BSc(Hons)

Dr Joanna Shearer qualified as a Clinical Psychologist from University College London in 2002. She has a MSc in Mental Health Studies and has completed specialist post doctoral training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She has also trained in Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy to offer patients additional treatment techniques, where appropriate. Jo has supervised and contributed to a number of research projects at Doctoral and MSc level and presented and taught nationally and internationally.

Clinically, Jo worked for a number of years with children and their families in Primary Care and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, before joining Great Ormond Street Hospital, where she continues to work part time supporting patients who require surgery for either congenital or acquired conditions. She has also worked with adults in her private practice for many years. Jo is the Clinical Lead for The North Thames Cleft Lip and Palate Service, the Maxillofacial Service and The Dental Service.

Physical Health

The main focus of Jo’s work at Great Ormond Street Hospital currently relates to the psychological implications of living with and managing a medical health condition. Over the years Jo has gained wide experience in helping patients with the key issues that a chronic health condition can involve, including pain/symptom management, coping with fatigue and pacing. She also has specialist experience in working with people who need surgical interventions, people who have been born with or acquired a visible difference, anxiety about medical procedures and helping people adjust to a new diagnosis.

Emotional and Mental Health

Jo has nearly 20 years of experience of providing evidence-based interventions for a range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety and stress, depression, OCD, social-anxiety, low self-esteem, emotional/behavioural issues and body dysmorphia. She works across the life-span, with children, adolescents, families and/or adults and has a thorough understanding of psycho-social development and attachment relationship building. She is experienced in working with parents, schools and facilitating MDT liaison with other healthcare professionals.

Professional Accreditations

Jo is a registered Practitioner Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council. She is also a member of the Clinical Excellence Network for Cleft Lip and Palate Services around the UK.

Areas of Expertise

Adults – Young People –  Children – Families

  • Pain, Fatigue and Symptom Management
  • Preparation for Surgery
  • Adjustment to a new condition
  • Coping with a chronic condition
  • Visible Difference
  • Self-Esteem
  • Social Anxiety
  • Anxiety & Stress
  • Depression
  • Phobias
  • The psychological impact of bullying
  • Neuro-diverse presentations, such as ADHD and ASD
  • Behaviour Management
  • Toileting issues
  • Feeding issues in younger children
  • Parenting