Paula Bell

Paula has over 25 years' experience as an integrative counsellor, psychosexual therapist, couple therapist and clinical supervisor. Throughout her career, she has developed a specialist interest in working with individuals, partners and couples affected by compulsive sexual behaviour and relationship difficulties. This work has given her a deep understanding of the impact that out-of-control sexual behaviour can have on individuals, intimate relationships and family systems.

Her professional background includes six years as a State Registered Psychiatric Nurse at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, followed by counselling roles with Gay Men's Health and Couples Counselling (now Bright Light). In 2002, she co-founded Contact Counselling, which continues to provide counselling services.

Alongside her private practice, Paula supervises therapists working in psychosexual therapy and compulsive sexual behaviour. She is also developing a specialist partner support programme that combines psychoeducation with shared experience.

Prior to establishing her full-time therapeutic practice, Paula owned and managed a successful health and fitness business employing approximately 50 staff and self-employed instructors. This provided her with extensive experience in leadership, recruitment, financial management and organisational accountability.

She continues to manage a busy private practice, coordinate referral networks, supervise practitioners and oversee shared clinical facilities. These roles have provided valuable experience in governance, professional standards and the responsibilities involved in supporting sustainable organisations.

Paula holds postgraduate qualifications in Integrative Counselling and Psychosexual Therapy. She is also trained in Couple Counselling, Clinical Supervision, Emotionally Focused Couple and Individual Therapy, Emotionally Focused Family Therapy, and the treatment of compulsive/addictive sexual behaviour. She also undertakes regular professional development.

Having attended ATSAC conferences over many years, Paula strongly identifies with the organisation's commitment to education, professional standards and ethical practice. She is particularly interested in strengthening support for partners affected by compulsive sexual behaviour, promoting high-quality training and supervision, and increasing awareness of ATSAC within the wider therapeutic community.

Paula hopes to contribute both her clinical expertise and organisational experience to the Board, helping ATSAC continue to develop as an inclusive, collaborative organisation that supports therapists while promoting the highest standards of care for clients, partners and families.