Kirsten Murphy first began her training with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychologyat the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, before completing a Master of Education (MEd) specialising in Educational Psychology at the same university. She achieved Chartered Psychologist status with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and has worked across schools and private practice settings, including multidisciplinary teams, as both a clinician and services manager.
In her work, Ms Murphy brings a child-centred and flexible approach, integrating Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Schema Therapy (ST), Trauma-Informed Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy. She is also trained in DIR Floortime, which she incorporates into her work with neurodivergent children. Alongside therapeutic work, she conducts comprehensive psycho-educational and cognitive assessments for children and young people aged 4 to 18, developing individualised support plans and working collaboratively with families, schools, and other professionals to ensure each child’s needs are met holistically. Ms Murphy believes that children learn about their world through relationships and play, and she aims to create a safe, engaging environment where they can explore their emotions and experiences at their own pace.
All clinicians at The Chelsea Psychology Clinic are trained to conduct comprehensive assessments, considering you as a whole person rather than a specific issue. They tailor treatment and integrate multiple therapeutic perspectives to create a plan that is both evidence-based and uniquely suited to you.
Ms Murphy supports children and young people experiencing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma-related difficulties, neurodevelopmental and neurodivergent presentations (including ADHD and ASD), and communication and interaction difficulties. Whatever a child or young person is struggling with, Ms Murphy aims to offer support that recognises and respects their unique needs and experiences.
Alongside her clinical work, Ms Murphy also partners with and supervises SEN specialists within educational settings, reflecting her commitment to promoting emotional wellbeing and development within schools.