About Frances Carpenter

Hello! Nice to meet you.

My name is Frances Carpenter, but I prefer Fran. I was born in Hampshire and grew up in Cornwall, where I now live and work. For as long as I can remember, I have been interested in behaviour and the internal processes that drive it. I studied Psychology at the University of Plymouth before completing a Master's degree in Evolutionary Psychology at the University of Liverpool. After university, I moved into research, working on a number of NHS-funded health and mental health studies. I trained as a therapist at The Berne Institute, where I qualified as a Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapist.

My background combines scientific research with in-depth clinical training. Psychology and research taught me to think critically, question assumptions and value evidence. Psychotherapy taught me that behind every piece of research is a unique individual whose experiences, relationships and story deserve to be understood. Bringing these perspectives together allows me to offer therapy that is both grounded in evidence and deeply human.

Before qualifying, I volunteered at Pegasus Men's Wellbeing Centre in Cornwall. I worked with both men and women, the majority of whom had experienced trauma, domestic abuse or domestic violence. It was through this work that my interest in supporting survivors of abusive relationships really developed, and it continues to shape my practice today.

My approach is integrative and trauma-informed. I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches and techniques, tailoring our work to your individual needs, circumstances and goals. Depending on what you need, this may include approaches informed by Transactional Analysis (TA), attachment theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), cognitive and behavioural approaches, and other evidence-informed psychological therapies.

I am a UKCP Registered Psychotherapist. The UK Council for Psychotherapy is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA), providing independent assurance that its registrants meet recognised standards of training, ethics and professional practice.

Alongside my core psychotherapy training, I regularly undertake specialist continuing professional development in trauma, coercive control, narcissistic abuse and neurodiversity to ensure my practice remains informed by current research and best practice.