About Dr Rachael Macleod

clinical and media Psychologist Supporting Film, TV and journalism

A woman with red hair, glasses, and a nose piercing smiling, wearing a light blue shirt and a gold necklace with an oval pendant, standing against a neutral background.

Working in media can be exciting, creative, and meaningful — but it can also be emotionally demanding. I am an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist supporting people who work in film, television, journalism, and digital media to protect their mental health while navigating high‑pressure environments.

Alongside my professional qualifications, I bring hands‑on experience supporting cast, crew, and contributors across a wide range of productions. I understand the realities of long days, unpredictable schedules, ethical dilemmas, public exposure, and the emotional impact of telling difficult stories.

My work is confidential, trauma‑informed, and tailored to the specific needs of media professionals. I aim to offer a supportive, grounded space where people can process their experiences and develop tools to sustain both wellbeing and career longevity. I am passionate about helping people feel heard and empowered, bringing empathy, playfulness, and professionalism to every interaction.

Examples of productions I have been involved in through PsyCoach:

Bargain Brits on Benefits (ITN Productions, 2022), Consultant on Britain’s Hungry Kids (Raise the Roof Productions, 2022), Naked Education (Betty TV, 2022), Naked Attraction (Studio Lambert, 2022), Kids & Cons (Shine TV, 2022), Rich Kids Go Skint (Kalel Productions, 2022), Rise & Fall (Studio Lambert, 2023), Social Media Murders (Crackit Productions, 2023), Rich House Poor House (Emporium Productions, 2023; 2024), Rich Holiday Poor Holiday (Emporium Productions, 2023; 2024), Changemakers (Proper Content, 2023), Vanished series 1 (ITN Productions, 2023), The Strip (Firecracker Films/Tinopolis, 2023), My Extraordinary Family (Future Studios, 2023), Katherine Ryan – Parental Guidance (Expectation TV, 2023), LadBible – COVID inquiry (LadBible, 2023), Vanished series 2 (ITN Productions, 2023), Killers: Caught on Camera (Back2Back Studios, 2024), Worlds Deadliest Weather (Back2Back, 2024), In the Footsteps of Killers (Back2Back, 2024),  Road to a Million (Amazon, 2024), Squid Game: The Challenge 2 (Studio Lambert), Love is Blind Season 1, 2, 3 (CPL productions, Netflix), Stranded on Honeymoon Island (CPL productions, BBC).

Qualifications and Training

HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist – PYL040113

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) – South Wales (2018–2021)

MSc Clinical & Developmental Neuropsychology – Bournemouth University (2015–2016)

BSc Psychology – Cardiff University (2012–2015)

  • Foundation Level in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice

  • ADHD Assessment & Management

  • Seasons of Matrescence Educator & Guide

  • ACT for Grief & Loss

  • ACT for Perfectionism & People‑Pleasing

  • EMDR Training Parts 1-4

  • Media Production Psychology - BPS

  • Authentic Leadership – BPS

  • DNA‑V (ACT for adolescents)

  • Theraplay Level 1 & MIM

  • Yoga Instructor Diploma (Level 3)

  • Compassion Focused Therapy for Trauma

  • Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy Level 1

  • ACT Levels 1–3

Why media-specific psychological support matters

Media work can place people in psychologically demanding environments that differ from many other professions. Whether working behind the scenes or in the public eye, media professionals may be exposed to distressing stories, ethical dilemmas, intense scrutiny, or prolonged periods of instability and pressure. These experiences can affect mental health in ways that are not always recognised or understood outside the industry. Media-specific psychological support offers a space where these realities are acknowledged, where confidentiality and safeguarding are prioritised, and where support is shaped around the real demands of media, creative, and digital work.