Dr Pieter Nel

Dr Pieter Nel is a clinical psychologist at Nightingale Hospital with over 30 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, children, and families through a wide range of psychological and emotional difficulties. His areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood and personality disorders, OCD, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, psychosexual difficulties, phobias, postnatal depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, stress, and interpersonal challenges. He also works with individuals facing eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, BED, and BDD, as well as those struggling with sex, love or behavioural addictions and issues related to work-related stress or dual diagnosis.

Dr Nel takes a compassionate and person-centred approach to therapy, offering a confidential, non-judgmental space tailored to the needs of each individual. Drawing on a wide range of psychological models—including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic theory, family and couples therapy—he develops treatment plans that reflect the complexity of each client’s lived experience. His work emphasises emotional resilience, relationships, and the capacity for personal change.

He has worked in both mental and physical health settings across the NHS and private sector and has supported clients of all ages. Alongside his clinical practice, Dr Nel has held a range of academic and leadership positions, including Programme Director for the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Hertfordshire, and roles as Lecturer and Reader in Clinical Psychology. He has also worked extensively in child and adolescent services and held senior consultant positions in the NHS.

In addition to his clinical and academic contributions, Dr Nel is a published researcher with a substantial portfolio of peer-reviewed journal articles on topics including trauma, family relationships, psychosis, sexual identity, eating disorders, and diversity in clinical practice. His research reflects his longstanding commitment to anti-oppressive and inclusive therapy.

Dr Nel holds a PhD in Child and Family Psychology from Birkbeck, University of London, and an MA in Clinical Psychology from the University of South Africa. He is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the British Psychological Society (BPS), and is a member of the Association of Family Therapy (AFT). He offers therapy in both English and Afrikaans.