ABOUT DR ASHLEY FRANCIS

A little bit about me

I’ve worked in psychology for over 15 years, and throughout that time I’ve remained fascinated by people’s individual stories — the experiences and relationships that have shaped them, and how these continue to influence the way they feel, relate to others and live their lives today.

That curiosity has shaped my own professional journey. Following my initial studies in psychology, I completed doctoral training in Clinical Psychology and continued to train in a range of therapeutic approaches, eventually undertaking several years of specialist psychotherapy training in the United States.

It was this search for a deeper understanding of how and why people become stuck that led me to Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). Its focus on understanding the emotional roots of our difficulties now sits at the heart of how I work.

TRAINING & PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS

A strong foundation in academic and clinical practice

I have undertaken extensive training in psychology and psychotherapy, and I'm committed to ongoing professional development.

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy)

University of Nottingham

MSc Forensic & Investigative Psychology

Distinction,

University of Liverpool


BSc (Hons) Psychology

First Class,

University of Liverpool

Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy Training

IEDTA-accredited practitioner,

Dr Patricia Coughlin, Core Training, Boston, USA

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Training

EMDR Accredited Practitioner, Richman Training, UK

A family picture of Dr Ashley Francis

BEYOND THE THERAPY ROOM

A bit more personally

I live in Derbyshire with my family, close to the Peak District. When I’m not working, much of my time is spent with my family and being outdoors.

I particularly enjoy running, cycling and keeping active, and living where I do means I’m fortunate to have the Peak District on my doorstep.

Having interests and relationships outside work is important to me. They provide perspective and are a reminder that ultimately therapy isn’t just about reducing psychological symptoms — it’s about helping people participate more fully in their lives and in the things that matter to them.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP


Ready to begin?

If you're considering therapy and would like to explore whether working with me might be right for you,

the first step is to arrange an initial assessment.

© 2026 Dr Ashley Francis. All rights reserved.