Dr Alyxandra Hamilton Smith
Clinical Psychologist
I understand the bravery it takes to seek support, and my goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where children and young people can explore their concerns at their own pace. My therapeutic approach is grounded in warmth, curiosity, and creativity. I work together with children and young people to understand their challenges and develop practical coping strategies to help create meaningful change. Adopting a flexible, personalised approach that is tailored to each young person’s unique needs, I apply psychological concepts in a thoughtful manner that allows them to feel heard, understood, and included.
At Shore Psychology, I support children and young people experiencing a range of challenges with their mental health. My therapeutic practice is built on compassion and collaboration, and I am committed to delivering evidence-based care to children, young people, and their families. In my work, I am guided by established psychological models and best practice guidelines to help young people understand their emotions, build coping skills, and foster resilience. I also take pride in offering neuro-affirming practice which recognises and values the diverse strengths, needs, and experiences of each person I work with.
In addition to therapy, I conduct neurodevelopmental assessments for autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). During this process, I place a strong emphasis on strengths-based assessment, ensuring that a young person’s abilities and potential are recognised alongside any challenges they may face.
Alongside my role at Shore Psychology, I also work as a Clinical Psychologist within NHS Scotland. I have experience working in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) as well as in a paediatric psychological service. As a result, I take a holistic approach to therapy, addressing both psychological and physical aspects of wellbeing. I have also had the opportunity to organise and facilitate parent-led anxiety groups, as well as provide training and supervision to colleagues and multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Clinical Experience
Conditions I work with
- Anxiety (including trauma, generalised, social &
health anxiety) - Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Depression and low self-esteem
- Stress and burnout
- Psychological or behavioural difficulties related to a physical health condition (e.g., coping with stress, anxiety, pain, hospital procedures and/or other mental wellbeing issues)
Therapies I offer
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), including trauma-focused and neurodevelopmentally adapted.
- Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Qualifications & Training
- Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClin) – University of Edinburgh (2019 – 2022)
- MSc Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Psychological Practice – University of Edinburgh (2015)
- BA Hons Psychology – Bishop’s University (2010 – 2014)
Professional Membership & Registrations
I am a registered member of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).[Registration No: PYL041420]