Dr. Gemma Foat-Smith

Gemma has worked in the in the NHS for over fifteen years. Her experience has been primarily with supporting infants, children and adolescents living with a range of physical and mental health difficulties. Gemma specialises in paediatric neuropsychology.

In addition to her role at CAYP, Gemma is the lead psychologist for a paediatric neuro-rehabilitation service providing input for an acute NHS Trust. Within this role Gemma works with inpatients and outpatients who have sustained acquired and traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. She also supports young people following a stroke, demyelinating disorders, rare neuro-genetic disorders and acute neurological disorders. As part of this role, she offers specialist comprehensive neuropsychological assessment, formulation and intervention for children, adolescents and young people. She works systemically within this role supporting families with adjustment and works closely with allied therapy teams. She supports the transition out of hospital and offers consultation and support to the young person’s educational placement. Gemma also provides direct and indirect support to young people and their families following their involvement in a trauma event, and subsequent experience of post-traumatic stress.

Gemma obtained an upper second-class undergraduate degree at John Moore’s University in 2009. She completed her master’s degree in forensic psychology at the University of Central Lancashire (2011) where she was awarded a merit. She completed her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Lancaster University (2017), completing specialist placements across Merseyside. Gemma’s doctoral thesis explored perceptions of resilience amongst professionals working within paediatric trauma services.

Gemma runs clinics in Liverpool and Manchester. These clinics offer intellectual and specialist neuropsychological assessments. Gemma also completes medicolegal assessments.

Gemma is a registered practitioner psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC, PYL34749).