Welcome to SafeGround Psychology
I’m Jo Slinn and I am a qualified forensic psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping people to understand themselves better, to heal from past wounds and to create new patterns of relating to themselves and others.
My background working in prisons and other secure settings has taught me to understand that we are all human beings doing our best to survive, sometimes in really difficult circumstances.
“we are all human beings doing our best to survive”
My Approach
I believe in creating a compassionate, non-judgemental space where all parts of you are welcome. Whatever your reason for seeking support, I’m here to help you understand those parts and how they have helped protect you from painful and unpleasant experiences. I also want to help you develop new ways of relating to yourself, and others, to allow you to achieve a full, meaningful life that aligns with the type of person you want to be. My approach is that every part of us has value, even the ones we (or others) may struggle to accept. These parts can help us learn and grow as we face life’s challenges.
I work with each person to meet their individual needs. I have been fortunate enough to train in a variety of approaches that I will weave into sessions, depending on your needs. I use a blend of therapeutic approaches including Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Mindfulness, & Internal Family Systems (IFS). I believe in the value of the therapeutic relationship as being central to any approach. I aim for you to feel emotionally safe and grounded in our sessions, knowing that I will respond with compassion and curiosity, no matter what the issue.
My Story
What motivates me to want to work with others is common humanity. I believe firmly that we are all doing the best with what we’ve got and the experiences we have had. Little separates us from each other, despite what we are led to believe, and there is much more that unites us. I, like you, am a human being, who is also navigating life’s ups and downs and gets tripped up by my brain and body along the way, the same way we all do. When you work with me, you can expect that I will bring this approach to our work and that together we will figure out the emotions, patterns and beliefs that might be causing you to suffer. I will provide you with tools and strategies to alleviate the suffering, with a focus on compassion and self-empowerment.
I am committed and passionate about the work I do and to the people I work with. Aspects of our society (with its external influences) can be judgmental and misunderstanding. I want to advocate for acceptance and compassion and a safe space to bring your struggles.
When I’m not being a psychologist you can find me walking my dog, on a yoga mat, or salsa dancing”.
Education & Credentials
Registered Forensic Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC, PYL33182)
Chartered Member of the British Psychological Society (BPS, Membership number:147324).
BPS Division of Forensic Psychology (DFP) Qualification in Forensic Psychology
MSc in Forensic Psychology
BSc in Psychology
