Laura Lea

Laura Lea is a Lecturer at the Salomons Institute for Applied Psychology within the School of Sciences, Psychology, Arts and Humanities, Computing, Engineering and Sports at Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), serving as Coordinator of service user and carer involvement for the clinical psychology course since 2009.

Her educational background includes:

• Social Work degree from the University of Bath
• MSc in Mental Health from the University of Brighton

Laura's research centers on the theory and practice of involving Experts by Experience (individuals with lived mental health/neurological conditions, families, and carers) in clinical psychology training and research, with specific focus on practical management strategies for psychosis, depression, and OCD. Her work leverages lived experience to enhance professional care sensitivity and skill through co-production frameworks.

She chairs the SAGE committee (Salomons Advisory Group of Experts by Experience) and developed the SAGE network spanning four regional NHS trusts. Her initiatives include the Salomons Training Group for people with learning disabilities contributing to second-year teaching, showcased at the 2024 Group of Trainers in Clinical Psychology conference, with current expansion into older adult involvement.

Until June 2022, Laura served as National Lead for Expert by Experience Involvement across Psychological Professions, driving systemic inclusion of lived experience in professional training programs nationwide.