Rachel Connell

Registered Psychologist

Qualifications

BSc (Hons), MSc, PgDip.

Bio

Rachel Connell is an Associate Psychologist at The Dawn Practice and is HCPC registered. She has over 13 years of experience working with both adults and adolescents, supporting people with difficulties linked to trauma, substance use, attachment and relationship challenges, and complex emotional or behavioural needs.

Rachel provides psychological assessment, formulation, and therapy for a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, and interpersonal or behavioural problems. She has particular expertise in working with individuals who have experienced adverse childhood experiences, violence, or relational trauma, as well as those with neurodiversity, cognitive functioning difficulties, and personality-related challenges.

Her therapeutic approach is grounded in Schema Therapy, which integrates elements of CBT, ACT, CFT, and mindfulness-based approaches. She works compassionately and collaboratively, helping clients gain insight into their thinking and behaviour patterns, strengthen emotional regulation, and develop healthier coping strategies. Schema Therapy is especially effective in supporting longer-term and complex presentations such as chronic anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties.

Alongside her private practice, Rachel works as a Psychologist within the Scottish Prison Service, where she conducts psychological risk assessments, manages high-risk complex cases, and delivers interventions addressing violence, aggression, and substance misuse. She is also an experienced trainer and has contributed to the design and delivery of programmes aimed at reducing reoffending and supporting staff wellbeing.

Training & Registration

Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Psychology Practice, Newcastle University, 2021
MSc Forensic Psychology, Glasgow Caledonian University, 2007
BSc (Hons) Psychology, Glasgow Caledonian University, 2006
HCPC Registered (PYL039590)