At Umid, our multidisciplinary team offers a range of mental health services, which are detailed below. Our approach begins with a thorough assessment to determine your needs. Sometimes, people are unsure about what service they require, and we are always happy to discuss available options. Upon receiving an enquiry via web form or email (umid@umid.co.uk), our Clinical Director, Sarah Wilson, will contact you to discuss your needs and assist you in accessing the right service.
Psychiatric Assessment and follow-up support with Dr Baig
Dr Baig is a Consultant Neuropsychiatrist specialising in Neurodevelopmental psychiatry in addition to support for general mental health difficulties. He offers both in-person and online psychiatric assessment and treatment for various mental health difficulties.
Autism and ADHD Assessments Adult General Psychiatric assessments Follow-up Psychiatric Support
In addition, Dr Baig supports the wider multidisciplinary team in neurodevelopmental assessments of children and young people with autism and ADHD.
General psychiatric assessments last 50 minutes, while follow-up appointments last 25 minutes. ADHD and Autism assessments follow different structures according to the age range and whether these are offered as consultant-led or multidisciplinary assessments.
Once an assessment appointment is booked, we will send you a personal details form and some questionnaires to complete, if required. GP records or copies of any previous assessment are helpful. Prescription medications may be unsafe without knowing your medical history or establishing potential interactions with other medications you may be on, or your GP may prescribe you later.
After all appointments, a detailed letter covering the assessment and treatment plan is sent to you and the GP, usually in a week for general psychiatric assessments and within two weeks for autism and ADHD assessments.
The following link provides Dr Baig’s professional profile, information on fees and assessments, and frequently asked questions.
Psychological Assessment and Treatment across the lifespan
In your psychological assessment, we would explore the nature of your difficulties and personal goals, share our understanding, and discuss how we can provide you with the support you need. A psychological assessment aims to provide a shared formulation with you and a psychological intervention plan tailored to your needs. A detailed psychological assessment report will be sent to you and, with your consent, to your GP within seven days of the appointment. Please allow up to 75 minutes for the assessment appointment. Follow-up therapy sessions are 50 minutes long.
All psychological therapy assessment and support interventions are offered on a self-pay basis only, and we cannot invoice Private Medical Insurance providers.
At Umid, we offer a wide range of therapies. Most of our therapists, however, have skills in various modalities and will be able to draw on a much broader skill set to provide you with the right support.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT)
Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults (MANTRA)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach that helps individuals identify and modify unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours contributing to psychological distress. CBT operates on the principle that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected; by addressing and restructuring negative thoughts, individuals can experience significant improvements in emotional well-being and daily functioning. This therapeutic method is particularly effective in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, and stress-related issues as well as eating disorder and other complex challenges.
Our skilled therapists collaborate closely with clients in a structured, goal-oriented process to develop personalised strategies that promote healthier thinking and behaviour patterns. Sessions may involve setting specific objectives, practicing new skills, and applying these techniques in real-life situations to reinforce learning and facilitate lasting change. By engaging in CBT at Umid, individuals are empowered to take an active role in their recovery, leading to enhanced coping mechanisms and a more balanced, fulfilling life.
CBT-E CBT-E is a psychological therapy for the treatment of eating disorders, such as Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa. Based on the ‘CBT-E map’, with the core CBT principles at the heart, CBT-E will support you in exploring the specific struggles that might be commonly present in an eating disorder.
Topics include connecting your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that you may be experiencing around the over-evaluation of shape, weight, and size. CBT-E will support you in developing body acceptance and commencing and maintaining regular eating while managing your personal internal and external triggers. CBT-E will also support you in redeveloping your identity away from your thoughts of your shape, weight, and size and will help you reconnect with your values and other areas of your life.
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a structured and evidence-based approach designed to help individuals who experience intense emotions and struggle with self-regulation. Originally developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been adapted to address a range of mental health conditions, including chronic depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and substance use issues. The therapy focuses on balancing acceptance and change, encouraging clients to accept themselves and their experiences while simultaneously working towards positive behavioural changes. DBT incorporates four key skill areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, providing clients with practical tools to manage emotional distress and improve relationships.
Our DBT programme at Umid involves weekly individual therapy sessions, where clients work collaboratively with a trained therapist to apply these skills to their personal challenges. The therapeutic process is tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring that the strategies learned are relevant and applicable to their daily lives. Through consistent practice and guidance, clients learn to navigate emotional difficulties more effectively, reduce self-destructive behaviours, and build a life that aligns with their values and goals. By fostering both acceptance and change, DBT empowers individuals to develop resilience and achieve lasting improvements in their mental health and well-being.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that encourages individuals to embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. ACT operates on the principle that pain and suffering are a natural and unavoidable part of the human experience; however, it is the struggle to control or avoid this discomfort that often leads to greater distress. By fostering psychological flexibility, ACT helps clients to accept what is out of their personal control and commit to actions that enrich their lives, aligning their behaviours with their core values.
In our one-to-one sessions, our skilled therapists guide clients through six core processes central to ACT: acceptance, cognitive defusion, being present, self as context, defining values, and committed action. Through mindfulness techniques and experiential exercises, individuals learn to observe their thoughts and emotions without judgment, reducing the impact of negative experiences. This approach empowers clients to move forward with actions that reflect their values and goals, even in the presence of challenging emotions. ACT has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues, by enhancing psychological resilience and promoting a more fulfilling life.
Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT)
At Umid, we offer Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), a therapeutic approach developed to assist individuals who grapple with high levels of self-criticism, shame, and related emotional challenges. CFT integrates principles from evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, and mindfulness to help clients cultivate compassion towards themselves and others. This process aims to activate the brain’s soothing system, promoting feelings of safety and self-acceptance, which can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with depression, anxiety, and trauma-related issues.
In our individual therapy sessions, clients engage in exercises designed to enhance self-compassion, such as mindfulness practices, imagery techniques, and compassionate letter writing. These methods encourage individuals to recognize and reframe self-critical thoughts, fostering a more supportive internal dialogue. By developing these skills, clients can improve emotional regulation, reduce psychological distress, and build resilience against future challenges. At Umid, our trained therapists provide a nurturing environment where clients can explore and develop compassion, paving the way for a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults (MANTRA)
MANTRA is a specialist therapy which has been devised and developed specifically for the treatment of anorexia nervosa. MANTRA consists of 7 core modules, all aiming to address the cognitive, emotional, relational and biological factors which might maintain symptoms of anorexia nervosa. All modules will be personalised to your own needs and goals. MANTRA aims to support individuals in developing the motivation and courage to make effective, meaningful changes by improving food intake and nutrition, addressing possible interpersonal difficulties, developing more helpful styles of thinking, developing effective emotional coping skills, and developing a sense of identity away from anorexia nervosa.
Schema Therapy
Schema Therapy is an integrative therapeutic approach designed to help individuals identify and modify deep-seated patterns of thinking and behaviour, known as early maladaptive schemas, which often develop from unmet emotional needs during childhood. These schemas can lead to persistent difficulties in relationships, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. Schema Therapy combines elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy, attachment theory, and experiential techniques to address these enduring patterns. It is particularly effective for individuals with chronic psychological issues, including personality disorders, depression, and anxiety, especially when other therapeutic approaches have not yielded the desired outcomes.
In one-to-one sessions, our skilled therapists work collaboratively with clients to identify their specific schemas and understand their origins and impact. Techniques such as imagery rescripting and chairwork dialogues are employed to help individuals reprocess past experiences and develop healthier coping mechanisms. The therapeutic relationship itself serves as a corrective experience, providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore and meet their unmet emotional needs. Through Schema Therapy at Umid, individuals are empowered to break free from unhelpful patterns, leading to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Integrative Therapy
Integrative therapy is a holistic support approach. It draws on different therapy techniques as they are needed and adapts them to your specific needs. Various therapies are combined into a cohesive experience, to improve the efficacy and efficiency of treatment. This will help to understand different aspects of yourself such as your mind, emotions, thoughts, body, and relationships.
Person-Centred Therapy
Person-centred therapy aims to help you achieve your full potential and become your true self. To help you do this, the therapist will offer:
- Unconditional positive regard – accepting and valuing you
- Congruence – honesty and transparency
- Empathetic understanding
At its core, PCT is about you leading your sessions, with less direction from the therapist, encouraging you to become more self-aware and more independent.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach that delves into the unconscious processes influencing an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Rooted in the principles of psychoanalysis, this therapy aims to uncover and address deep-seated emotional conflicts and patterns that may have originated in early life experiences. By bringing these unconscious elements into conscious awareness, individuals can gain profound insights into their current psychological challenges, facilitating meaningful and lasting change.
In our one-to-one sessions, our skilled therapists create a safe and supportive environment where clients are encouraged to explore their innermost thoughts and emotions. Techniques such as free association, dream analysis, and the examination of transference relationships are employed to help individuals understand the underlying causes of their distress. This process not only alleviates symptoms but also promotes self-awareness and personal growth. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy at Umid is particularly effective for those dealing with depression, anxiety, and complex relational issues, offering a pathway to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Art Therapy
At Umid, we offer Art Therapy as a powerful and creative form of psychological support, especially beneficial for those who may struggle to express themselves through words alone. Delivered in a safe, supportive one-to-one setting, Art Therapy invites individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through artistic expression—using materials such as paint, clay, collage, or drawing. No artistic skill is required; the focus is not on the final product but on the process, which can help uncover emotions that are difficult to articulate, access unconscious material, and promote deeper self-awareness. It’s particularly effective for individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or emotional regulation difficulties, where verbal therapy alone may feel overwhelming or inaccessible.
Our qualified Art Therapists create a nurturing, non-judgemental space where each person can work at their own pace. By engaging with imagery and symbolism, individuals often find new ways to make sense of their inner world, process past experiences, and build a more compassionate relationship with themselves. Art Therapy can also help strengthen identity, reduce stress, and enhance emotional resilience. At Umid, we believe in the transformative potential of creative expression—and Art Therapy offers an alternative route into healing, one that is both gentle and profoundly revealing.
Family Therapy
At Umid, we understand that challenges faced by one family member can profoundly affect the entire family unit. Our Family and Systemic Therapy services are designed to address these interconnected dynamics, fostering healthier relationships and improving overall family functioning. This therapeutic approach views the family as an integrated system, recognising that each member’s behaviours and emotions influence the others. By involving the whole family in therapy sessions, we aim to identify and transform patterns of interaction that may contribute to conflicts or distress.
In Family and Systemic Therapy at Umid, sessions typically involve all or several family members, depending on the specific circumstances. Our skilled therapists facilitate open dialogues, helping family members express their thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment. Techniques such as family mapping are employed to visualise and understand relational patterns and hierarchies within the family. This process aids in identifying areas where communication may be strained or boundaries may be unclear. By collaboratively exploring these dynamics, families can develop more effective ways of relating to one another, leading to improved communication, strengthened bonds, and a more harmonious home environment. At Umid, we are committed to guiding families through this transformative process, empowering them to navigate challenges together with resilience and understanding.
Couple Therapy
At Umid, we offer Couples Therapy to support partners in strengthening their relationships through improved communication, conflict resolution, and deeper emotional connection. Recognising that each relationship is unique, our approach is tailored to address the specific challenges and dynamics that couples face. By providing a safe and neutral environment, we facilitate open dialogue where both partners can express their thoughts and feelings, fostering mutual understanding and empathy. This collaborative process aims to identify and transform unhelpful patterns, enhance intimacy, and build a more resilient partnership.
Our experienced therapists employ evidence-based techniques, including elements from Systemic Therapy, which views the couple as an interconnected system influenced by various factors such as individual backgrounds, family dynamics, and societal contexts. By exploring these influences, couples can gain insight into how external factors impact their relationship and develop strategies to navigate them effectively. Through this process, partners are empowered to co-create a fulfilling and balanced relationship that supports their individual growth and shared goals.
Specialist Addictions Therapy
Our specialist individual therapy for addiction offers a confidential and supportive environment where individuals can address the complexities of their substance use or compulsive behaviours. Our approach is holistic and person-centred, focusing on understanding the underlying psychological, emotional, and social factors that contribute to addiction. By exploring these root causes, clients gain valuable insights into their behaviours and develop tailored strategies to manage triggers and cravings effectively.
Our experienced therapists employ evidence-based techniques to support clients in building resilience and fostering healthier coping mechanisms. Through this personalised therapeutic process, individuals are empowered to make meaningful changes, enhance their overall well-being, and work towards a sustainable recovery. At Umid, we are committed to walking alongside our clients on their journey towards a more fulfilling and balanced life, free from the constraints of addiction.
Neurodevelopmental Diagnostic and Post-diagnostic Support Pathway across the lifespan
Autism assessment with children and young people
At Umid, we offer specialist autism assessments for children and young people in line with evidence-based practice and specialist assessment tools, the ADOS-2 and the ADI-R. The ADOS-2 is completed with the young person by a member of our specialist neurodevelopmental team and takes between 60 and 90 minutes. The ADI-R is completed by another member of our specialist team with a parent or carer who knows the young person well and takes between 2 and 3 hours. With consent, we will video the ADOS-2. The two parts of the assessment are then reviewed and scored by the neurodevelopmental team in a multi-disciplinary meeting to help ensure the quality and validity of the scoring and conclusions. We arrange a follow-up appointment within two weeks of the assessment meeting to discuss the conclusions and next steps. A comprehensive report is available within 4-6 weeks time and is shared with the family.
Supporting Neurodiverse Children and Their Families at Umid
At Umid, we understand that Autism affects each child and family differently. That’s why we adopt a consultative, person-centred approach, tailoring our support to help children, young people, and their families navigate everyday life with confidence and compassion.
We offer a comprehensive intervention programme designed in collaboration with the child, their family, and relevant professionals. This bespoke plan may include individual psychological therapy, family therapy, or occupational therapy, and focuses on providing the practical support each family needs.
Our Approach Includes:
For Children and Young People:
- Understanding Autism and what it means for the individual, with an emphasis on recognising both the challenges and the strengths that come with neurodiversity.
- Reducing masking behaviours and supporting young people to feel confident in embracing their neurodiverse identity.
- Emotional regulation strategies to help manage big feelings and increase resilience.
- Understanding and managing sensory overload, with the aim of reducing meltdowns and supporting self-awareness.
- Recognising and managing feelings and needs in helpful and validating ways.
Practical Management Strategies (for home and school):
- Teaching parents and school staff to identify a child’s strengths and challenges, as well as early signs of distress.
- Use of social stories to help children navigate specific social scenarios, like initiating conversations with peers.
- Support during transitions, such as starting school or moving between environments.
- Sensory processing assessments to understand how sensory experiences impact daily life, followed by tailored strategies and interventions.
- Visual cues and aids to support routines, transitions, and new activities.
- Establishing and maintaining predictable routines to create structure and support adaptability.
- Developing physical skills to enhance strength, coordination, and participation in peer activities.
Family Support:
To truly support a neurodiverse child in reaching their full potential, we believe in working holistically with the family and carers. Our family support aims to:
- Build understanding of autism and what it means for your loved one.
- Emphasise the importance of co-regulation and self-care, and share strategies for achieving both.
- Strengthen communication within the family, ensuring each member feels heard and understood.
- Recognise and enhance family strengths, helping everyone work together more effectively.
Occupational Therapy Assessment and Support
The Role of Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapists work with individuals of all ages to help them participate in the activities they need or want to do to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. We address not only the physical aspects of functioning, but also the psychosocial, environmental, and community-based factors that affect day-to-day living.
Our holistic assessments may explore:
- Physical abilities (strength, coordination, balance)
- Cognitive functioning (memory, planning, coping strategies)
- Environmental factors (home, school, work settings)
- Emotional and social supports available
- Tools and resources required (e.g. assistive tech, adapted equipment)
Whether your child is struggling with focus at school, managing emotions, participating in play, or adapting to new environments, our OT team is here to provide practical, personalised strategies to help them thrive.
Occupational Therapy at Umid
At Umid, we understand that every child and young person is unique. Our Occupational Therapy (OT) services are designed to provide a consultative, individualised approach that supports children and their families in navigating daily life with greater ease and confidence. We recognise the importance of understanding not just the child’s challenges, but also their strengths, interests, and the unique dynamics of their family and environment.
What to Expect from an Occupational Therapy Assessment
All of our OT assessments are conducted in person to allow for the most accurate and meaningful interaction. Prior to the appointment, we ask families to complete pre-assessment questionnaires, so we can ensure your time in clinic is used to its fullest potential.
During the assessment, our Occupational Therapist will meet with you and your child to explore functional strengths and challenges across various areas of daily life — including school, play, self-care, leisure, and the home environment. This may include clinical observations of tasks in the clinic setting. If appropriate, additional observations at school or at home may be arranged following the initial assessment.
Following assessment, we will develop a bespoke, goal-oriented intervention plan tailored to your child or young person’s specific needs. This plan may include the following interventions:
Occupational Therapy Interventions for mental health
Zones of Regulation
A structured programme to support emotional regulation by:
- Integrating sensory processing, emotional awareness, and executive functioning
- Improving recognition of emotions and facial expressions
- Equipping young people with tools and strategies to manage emotional responses and behaviours
Sensory Advice and Toolkits
(Previously known as Sensory Diets)
Developing personalised, child-centred plans to address sensory processing challenges:
- Identifying sensory difficulties and their impact on daily life
- Providing practical strategies to support routine and engagement
- Improving function, comfort, and overall quality of life for the child and their family
Special Yoga
A specialist form of yoga therapy for children and young people with additional needs such as Autism, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, PMLD and Down Syndrome. These sessions incorporate:
- Movement, breath work, sound, massage, mindfulness, and relaxation
- Benefits include improved body awareness, motor planning, emotional wellbeing, and social interaction
How OT Can Support Neurodiverse Children and Young People
Our expert paediatric OTs are highly skilled in supporting children and young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and Asperger Syndrome. We recognise that these neurodevelopmental conditions affect each individual and family differently, and our interventions are always tailored accordingly.
Support Strategies:
- Education for parents and school staff: Identifying strengths, needs, and early signs of distress
- Social stories: Helping children navigate everyday social situations such as initiating conversations or managing change
- Support during transitions: Including starting school, moving on to college or employment, or living independently
- Sensory processing interventions: Understanding sensory sensitivities (e.g. noise, crowds) and providing treatment plans
- Visual supports: Using cues to aid with routines, task changes, and independence
- Establishing consistent routines: Helping manage daily life and prepare for unexpected changes
- Developing physical skills: Building coordination and strength to support participation in peer activities
- School support: Educating staff to help neurodiverse children access the curriculum in ways that work for them