Introducing Dr Abi Tarran-Jones, The Outdoor Psychologist.

Hello I’m Dr Abi Tarran-Jones

Clinical Psychologist, Outdoor Therapist and Supervisor

I am a mother, a wife, a professional and friend. I have enjoyed the highs, as well as suffered the lows. I have endured the seemingly paralysing pressures of juggling these important roles. I have been a carer and I have experienced the deepest loss. I am a keen trail runner and I relish the sense of adventure and freedom this affords me.

I tell you all of this, because just like you, I am human too! Through my own personal therapy, professional knowledge, support network, passion for nature and commitment to my own wellbeing, I have found ways through my personal challenges. I am hopeful that my knowledge, skills and experience can help you find a way through yours too.

Prior to setting up my private practice, I have over ten years’ experience in the NHS. I have supported adults of all ages to overcome the difficulties they have endured, promote their mental wellbeing and resilience and enhance their quality of life.

Roseberry Topping in spring, with gorse and bluebells in foreground.

the outdoor psychologist

The concept for launching the outdoor psychologist practice was borne out of my own personal connection with nature and the therapeutic impact that being outdoors has had on me.

In difficult times I would grab my trail shoes and head for the North York Moors to explore the wonder of the Cleveland Way National Trail. Walking and running in nature, brought a smile to my face, eased my busy mind and left me with a sense of calm. In moments when I felt stuck or lost, I found putting one foot in front of the other on those trails, motivating and inspiring and helped me carve out a way forward.

I needed to share the therapeutic benefit of being in nature with others. Supported by an abundance of research evidencing the value of taking therapy outdoors and training to deepen my skillset, I launched the outdoor psychologist.

Qualifications

I am committed to my ongoing personal and professional development, to ensure the therapy, consultation and supervision I provide is ethical and effective. I do this through engaging in training, regular supervision, personal therapy and spending time in nature.

  • Embodied Reciprocal Roles, Caroline Greenwood Dower, 2023

  • Flash Technique, Manfield, 2022

  • Taking Therapy Outdoors, Centre for Natural Reflection, 2022

  • Cognitive Analytic Therapy Practitioner training, Catalyse North, 2019-2023

  • Teesside Accredited Supervisor Training, Teesside University, 2017

  • Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), Teesside University, 2013-2016

  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology (BSC Hons Ed), University of Edinburgh, 2004-2008

I am registered as an Applied Clinical Psychologist with the Health Care Professional Council (HCPC) and the Association for Cognitive Analytic Therapy (ACAT). I am fully insured, certified by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and I am GDPR compliant.

Heather moorland with sheep and blue skies taken near Cod Beck Reservoir.

“Just being surrounded by bountiful nature, rejuvenates and inspires us.”

— EO Wilson