I know what it's like to keep one eye on your child and the other on everything that could go wrong.
I'm a mental health nurse, a certified coach and mum to two girls. My youngest lives with multiple serious food allergies. That's shaped our family life in ways I never expected, and it's a big part of why I do this work.
Life is about more than allergies.As an allergy parent, I've navigated the appointments, ingredient labels, emergency plans and the moments when a reaction changes everything in seconds.
I've also experienced the side that isn't written into an allergy action plan. The mental checklist that never quite switches off. The second-guessing after a decision. The pressure to keep everyone safe while somehow carrying on with ordinary family life.
Sometimes it feels as though everyone is focused on keeping your child safe, but nobody asks how you are managing.
That space between necessary vigilance and feeling consumed by worry is where I want to help.
“Your child's safety matters.And so does your wellbeing.”
My approach brings together years of mental health practice, psychology and coaching with the everyday realities of raising a child with serious allergies.
More than 16 years' experience supporting people with their mental health, including crisis work, community services and team leadership.
Degrees in psychology and cognitive psychology, plus certified coaching and training in approaches including CBT, DBT and motivational interviewing.
Volunteer support group facilitator with Allergy UK incorporating Anaphylaxis UK, bringing parents and people living with allergies together.
Coaching is not medical treatment or a replacement for therapy, an allergy action plan or advice from your clinical team.
I'm happiest when I'm dancing, reading a good book or spending time with my family and friends. Finding space for the things I love isn't always straightforward, but I've learned how much it matters.
That's something I want other mums to have, too. Not a life without sensible precautions, but a life in which allergies aren't allowed to take up every last bit of space.
You deserve support as a person, not just as the one who keeps everything running.
I'm joining fellow professionals to talk about the emotional realities of allergy parenting, the mental load and finding confidence alongside sensible safety precautions.
With Dr Polly James, Clinical Psychologist
I've already recorded our conversation. The episode hasn't been published yet, and I'll add the direct listening link when it is available.
Explore Dr Polly James's podcastWith Dr Karen Murphy, Clinical Psychologist
I'm looking forward to joining Dr Karen Murphy for a conversation. Once the recording is complete and the episode is released, I'll share the listening link here.
Explore Serene: The Allergy PodcastHave a podcast or publication? I welcome conversations about the psychological side of allergy parenting and life beyond constant vigilance.
Invite me to contribute