Meet our Sport and Exercise Psychologist: Stacey Fensome

Stacey is Orri’s new (and first) Sport and Exercise Psychologist. We sat her down to learn more about her role and how her work is integral to our clients’ recovery.

Can you take a moment to introduce yourself?

Hi! My name is Stacey and I am a newly qualified Sport and Exercise Psychologist.

How long have you been a clinician for and what were you doing before Orri?

I finished my training in May 2022 and have worked in a range of settings within my numerous placements. My final project within my training was creating an exercise based therapy group to help individuals who struggle with compulsive exercise heal their relationship with physical activity and their bodies. 

I have previously worked in a CAMHS psychiatric hospital providing individual and group therapy to young people with a range of different mental health difficulties, as well as individuals with Autism and ADHD. My work in sport is continuing alongside my work at Orri.

Can you tell us about the type of therapy/discipline that you practice?

I work primarily using ACT and Positive Psychology but I have been trained in CBT, DBT and CFT. I like to try to help my clients develop psychological flexibility and live their lives in line with their values to help them achieve their goals and be able to manage any challenge they face.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I think the most rewarding thing is supporting clients throughout their journey and seeing how resilient people are in the face of adversity. I love being a part of their recovery journey in any way I can and I find it incredibly moving when you can see the overall progress people make.

What do you feel is the most challenging aspect of your role?

This work can be super intense and it is hard to hear some of the heart-breaking things clients have been through in their lives. I often carry client’s stories with me and hold them in mind outside of work so at times it can be challenging for me to switch off.

What do you feel is most unique about Orri?

The warmth you feel when you step into the building is incredible and I believe Orri provides a sense of safety when the world may feel unsafe. All of the clients come with their own unique story and each staff member have their own way that they play a part in the journey each client is on. I love that Orri treats each client as an individual and provides them with their own person-centred care, which is a stark difference to other services.

Outside of work, what do you do for your own mental wellbeing?

I always like to have a holiday booked to give me something to look forward to! I also enjoy going to gigs and festivals, watching or reading about true crime and spending time with my 2 dogs.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

“The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of them all.” 

 – from Mulan (I am a huge Disney fan)!

Do you have a mental health hero?

It sounds very cliché but the clients I work with and the staff that dedicate their time to helping them. No doubt about that.

If you had one piece of advice for a therapy-seeker, what would it be?

Give it a go! Yes, it may be uncomfortable and scary, but we have to put ourselves in new situations in order for things to change.

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