NHS 75 Staff Stories: Nichola Eaton
Nichola Eaton - Dialectical Behaviour Therapist, Accredited SfDBT
How long have you been in the NHS?
I have worked in mental health services within Coventry and Warwickshire for almost 42 years. I completed my RMN training at Central Hospital in Hatton near Warwick and as a newly qualified nurse, I worked on the interim regional secure unit at Central. I then worked for many years as a CPN within adult mental health services and CAMHS, before helping to develop and set up the Early Intervention Service in North Warwickshire and Rugby. For the last 12 years, I have worked as an Accredited DBT Therapist within the Trust.
Why did you choose to work in the NHS?
Through my role as a volunteer visitor on an older adult’s ward at Central Hospital, I decided that I wanted to train as a RMN.
Describe your role in 100 words.
I now work as a DBT Therapist delivering both individual and group therapy to clients who have a diagnosis of Emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) and who frequently engage in self-harm and suicidal behaviours.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I really enjoy helping clients to achieve their ‘Life Worth Living Goals’ and observing and helping clients to make positive changes in their lives
Describe your favourite memory of working at CWPT in 100 words.
I have lots of wonderful memories of working within CWPT and particularly of my journey from the start of my career within an old-style asylum to working within the community, from the start of the development of community mental health services to my present role.
I have wonderful memories of working with so many wonderful and experienced colleagues over the years and of the training that I have received during that time.
Receiving my 40-year service award was a special moment in my career that has allowed me to reflect on my achievements and all the service users that I have been privileged to have worked with over the years.
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