Dr Livia Pontes

Dr Livia Pontes, Chartered Clinical Psychologist

Many women come to me feeling frightened by what is happening to their minds.

They tell me they’ve become anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, forgetful and unable to think as clearly as they once did. They no longer recognise themselves. They wonder whether they’re simply stressed, whether they’re “going mad”, or whether something more serious is wrong.

As a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist with over 20 years’ experience in the NHS and private practice, I help women understand how the hormonal changes of perimenopause can affect the brain, cognition and mental health. Understanding what is happening is often the first step towards feeling hopeful again.

My specialist training in neuropsychology and approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion-focussed therapy (CFT) gives me a unique perspective on symptoms such as brain fog, memory difficulties, poor concentration and the emotional impact these changes can have. Together, we make sense of what’s happening, develop practical, evidence-based strategies, and help you regain confidence in yourself.

Alongside my professional expertise, I bring lived experience of postnatal depression (twice!), panic disorder and now I am navigating perimenopause. These experiences have deepened my empathy and reinforced my belief that recovery is possible. No woman should feel dismissed or expected to simply “put up with it.” As a woman who is also a business owner, mum of 2 and human to a very active husky, I also understand the invisible load that women carry and the unrealistic expectations placed on us.

Clients often describe me as warm, approachable and easy to talk to, while valuing the depth and rigour of my clinical expertise.

My work goes beyond helping women cope with symptoms. It’s about helping them understand themselves, rediscover their identity, reconnect with what matters most, and move forward with greater confidence and purpose.

My hope is that every woman leaves our work together feeling calmer, more empowered, and no longer wondering where she has gone—but recognising herself again.

I am the founder of Pontes Psychology and the creator of The Exhale Space, an educational programme supporting women through the psychological and emotional aspects of perimenopause and midlife.

Free guide to mental health support in the menopause transition: https://3ce4a3e5.sibforms.com/v2/serve/MUIFAOTzve4iO3tDLq6GaPcCHaHqDWp-fzsW2y9QeaK4JM690JcqJfg-FweDJgfgLLy5Y-BTXmIHTogpQu0PYhUuWXwvGBthRj7e--CJyNwJnCZ3oALLXUTiJANsWbM9dnvqIE2PhQPT5-39DtW3luCVsAf--MjdTxxjVUl0vF4jlW6nfCA9wJPj19UfbJiO43NF7_2NeI6HSKSIqA==

Website: www.pontespsychology.com

The Exhale Space programme for the menopause transition: https://www.pontespsychology.com/exhale-space

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