Dr Sarah Lloyd Clinical Psychology
Dr Sarah Lloyd is an HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist and BPS Chartered Psychologist with 15+ years of experience, based in Sevenoaks. Works with adolescents and adults using CBT, ACT, Compassion Focused Therapy, mindfulness-based approaches and EMDR.
Location: Sevenoaks
Areas covered: Sevenoaks, Hildenborough, Oxted, Orpington, Kings Hill, West Malling, Westerham, West Kingsdown, Tunbridge Wells
Phone: 07845 769442
Email: enquiries@drsarahlloyd.com
About Psychology Services
Psychologists working with children and young people provide assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic support for a wide range of developmental, emotional, and behavioural needs. This may include neurodevelopmental assessments for autism and ADHD, cognitive assessments, and evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), play-based approaches, and family therapy.
For families of children with SEND, psychology services can provide the diagnostic clarity needed to access the right support. Assessment reports from clinical or chartered psychologists are accepted as evidence in EHCP applications and tribunal proceedings. Psychologists also support children with anxiety, low mood, challenging behaviour, and the emotional impact of neurodevelopmental conditions.
A psychology assessment usually begins with a detailed history-taking session with parents, followed by direct work with the child. The psychologist will use a combination of standardised assessments, clinical observations, and information from school to build a comprehensive picture. A detailed written report is provided with diagnosis where appropriate, recommendations, and suggested next steps.
Areas Served
- Sevenoaks
- Hildenborough
- Oxted
- Orpington
- Kings Hill
- West Malling
- Westerham
- West Kingsdown
- Tunbridge Wells
Specialisms
- CBT -- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for anxiety, low mood and related difficulties
- ACT -- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
- Compassion Focused Therapy -- Compassion Focused Therapy for shame, self-criticism and emotional difficulties
- EMDR -- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy for trauma
- adolescent mental health -- Specialist mental health support for teenagers
- anxiety -- Therapeutic support for children and young people with anxiety
Before Your First Appointment
To get the most from your initial consultation, here are some things to consider:
- Bring relevant documents -- gather any previous reports (e.g. from school, NHS, or other professionals), letters from your child's SENCO, and any diary notes you have kept about your child's development or behaviour.
- Know what to expect -- most first appointments involve an initial assessment or consultation. The professional will want to understand your child's history, current difficulties, and what you hope to achieve. A written report with recommendations typically follows.
- Prepare your child -- explain in age-appropriate terms that they are going to meet someone who will play with them or talk to them, and that this person is there to help. Reassure them that it is not a test they can fail.
- Questions to consider asking -- How long is the assessment process? What will the report include? How many sessions might be needed? Can you provide strategies for home and school? What are the costs and are there any funding options available?
Helpful Resources
These SENDPath guides may be useful as you explore your options:
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a neurodevelopmental assessment?
A neurodevelopmental assessment for autism or ADHD typically involves a detailed developmental history with parents, direct observation and assessment of the child, and information gathered from school. The psychologist uses gold-standard assessment tools (such as ADOS-2 for autism) and considers all the evidence together to reach a clinical judgement. A comprehensive report is provided with diagnosis where appropriate.
Will a private diagnosis be recognised by the NHS and schools?
Yes. A diagnosis from an HCPC-registered psychologist is a valid clinical diagnosis regardless of whether it was obtained privately or through the NHS. Schools and local authorities should recognise private diagnoses and use them to inform support planning, including EHCP applications.
How long is the waiting time for a private assessment?
Waiting times vary between providers, but most private psychologists can offer an initial appointment within a few weeks, compared to NHS waiting lists which can be 1-3 years or longer in some areas. Contact the provider directly for their current availability.
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