Rachel Close

Rachel Close is a Senior Lecturer in Social Work at Teesside University, affiliated with the Institute for Collective Place Leadership. Her academic roles include clinical supervision and teaching, alongside a Ph.D. in progress at UCLAN exploring trauma-informed approaches in domestic abuse services.

Educational Background:

• PhD Candidate (2018–2024): UCLAN, researching trauma-informed practice in domestic abuse service provision
• PGDip Evidence Based Psychological Therapy (2019–2020): Northumbria University
• MA Social Work (2014–2015): Teesside University
• MA TV Production (2011–2012): Teesside University

Research Focus: Rachel’s work centers on trauma-informed interventions, domestic abuse service improvements, and systemic family therapy. She emphasizes clinical supervision, child sexual exploitation, and emotional regulation in professional training.

Key Contributions: Co-authored a chapter on care-experienced voices in service design (2020), developed trauma-focused training programs, and led student supervision in social work placements.

Professional Roles: British Psychological Society-accredited clinical supervisor, with leadership in training delivery for social workers, nurses, and law enforcement.