Dr Barley Birney CPsychol

Consultant Psychologist | Leadership Coach | Parent Coach | Group Coach | Speaker & Trainer | Former Head of Service and Principal Psychologist

London, England, United Kingdom

About

I’m an executive coach and psychologist who helps people thrive at work and in life. My leadership coaching supports professionals in demanding roles to focus on what matters most, approach challenges with clarity, and lead with confidence. Clients often describe feeling grounded and energised. That they are less overwhelmed, more optimistic and happier at work. That difficult work relationships become more constructive. That they spend less time working and are more effective. My parent coaching draws on long experience as a child psychologist. I love holding a non-judgemental and safe space for parents—especially those raising children with additional needs—to reflect, think clearly and find practical ways forward. Parents tell me that they have a deeper understanding of the challenges that they have been struggling with, they can talk about difficult issues, that they feel less guilty and conflicted. That family life becomes more enjoyable and relationships are stronger. With 25 years as a psychologist, mostly as a senior leader in public service, I bring expertise in ethical leadership, strategy, learning and development, and supporting diverse teams. Across corporate, public, nonprofit and entrepreneurial settings, my coaching helps people bring their best selves to both work and family life. I'd be delighted to schedule a friendly 30-minute discovery call to discuss your situation and how we could work together. [email protected]

Experience

  • Leadership Coach, Parent Coach and Consultant Educational Psychologist at Birney Consulting Ltd
    Dec 2021 - Present · 4 yrs 7 mos

  • Consultant Educational Psychologist at London Borough of Enfield
    Jan 2022 - Apr 2024 · 2 yrs 4 mos

    Consultant Educational Psychologist, working with specialist settings with young people with complex Social Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Working to embed trauma-informed practice and with families affected by Emotionally Based School Non Attendance. My approach is person-centred and I use Video Interaction Guidance (VIG), narrative approaches and coaching psychology.

  • Head of Specialist Inclusion Services and Principal Educational Psychologist at Barnet Council
    Aug 2019 - Oct 2021 · 2 yrs 3 mos

  • Acting Principal Educational Psychologist (PEP) at London Borough of Tower Hamlets
    Aug 2003 - Aug 2019 · 16 yrs 1 mo

  • Educational Psychologist at London Borough of Lambeth
    Sep 2001 - Aug 2003 · 2 yrs