Let me help you find your purpose
I am Maxine (Max), the owner and founder of Max Purpose Psychology. I am an Educational Psychologist (EP) with over 20 years of experience. I qualified from the University of Newcastle in 2001. Throughout my career, I have worked with a variety of teams and in a range of roles including EP for a Virtual School, a Targeted Mental Health in School Project and the Wellbeing Education Return Project. I was also Vice Chair of the Adoption Panel.
I initially trained as a Secondary teacher and worked in that role for 4 years. During this time, I developed an interest and expertise in working with young people with additional needs. I left teaching to complete a Conversion Diploma in Psychology at Sunderland University. Alongside that I worked as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Education on the EPPE (Effective Provision of Pre- School Education) Project. I gained experience as an Assistant Educational Psychologist in Conwy, North Wales, before earning my MSc in Educational Psychology from Newcastle University in 2001, launching my career in this field.
I was seconded for two years to work for the Centre for Excellence and Outcomes (C4EO – non government organisation) as a Sector Specialist for Vulnerable Children and Early Intervention. With a wealth of experience, I have worked at a strategic, systemic level with Local Authorities and their partners across England, providing early intervention and support for families in need.
For 13 years, I worked as a Senior Educational Psychologist, where I led a range of initiatives, including the Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) training, staff induction and the development of a successful Assistant Educational Psychology programme. My areas of specialism include supervision, coaching, training, bereavement and critical incident support. I have completed additional training in these areas.
During my 20 years as a Local Authority Educational Psychologist, I honed a diverse skill set that defines my work today. I utilise my psychological knowledge, supervision, coaching and other business skills to support my clients.
In 2022, I decided to pursue my own practice but recognised the need to expand my business knowledge. Through the Durham Ambitious Business Start-ups (DABS) programme, Business Durham and the Digital Drive County Durham programme, I gained the skills and confidence to establish Max Purpose Psychology in September 2022. These experiences have allowed me to support other small business owners and budding entrepreneurs as well.
In September 2023, I left my Local Authority role to work full-time in Max Purpose Psychology. I now dedicate myself fully to supporting my clients using my psychological expertise, supervision, coaching and business acumen.
“What if I fall? Oh but my darling, what if you fly?”
– Eric Hanson
Supervision & Coaching
I am passionate about helping professionals to learn, grow and flourish through ongoing supervision, coaching and, training. I have completed additional training in these areas including training with the British Psychological Society. I offer bespoke group and one to one supervision and coaching. In coaching and supervision, I provide a non-judgemental supportive safe space for growth.
My commitment to providing support and development opportunities through supervision and coaching reflects my dedication to the growth and development of the Educational Psychology profession.
Values & Purpose
My core values – authenticity, learning, collaboration, connection, compassion and trust – guide every aspect of my work. My mission is to make a difference and to support people to find their purpose and flourish.
I take an eclectic and empowering approach to my work and am known for my warmth, empathy and strong interpersonal skills. I have a good insight into group dynamics and am approachable, willing to listen and ready to provide support.
I believe it is important to find ways to manage our work-life harmony, as our time is precious. I am an active listener, passionate, supportive and empathetic, leading by example with hope, optimism, self-efficacy, and resilience.
I am proud to actively engage with a community of creative, inspirational like-minded Educational Psychologists. I co-host PositiviTEA, a free half termly online space with Dr Fiona Coley, where we connect the EP community, network and talk about positive psychology.
My dedication to connecting with others and building a support network is testament to my commitment to both personal and professional growth.
In the Press
North East Connected
Frequently Asked Questions
The majority of my clients are Educational Psychologists. Some are fully self employed, others have a portfolio of work and some are full time in Local Authorities.
In addition, I work with education leaders, schools and small business owners.
I am open to working with new clients and I am committed to being flexible and responsive.
Max Purpose Psychology offers personalised and bespoke services designed to help psychologists, education leaders, schools, small business owners and individuals achieve their goals and to flourish in their careers and personal lives. With over 22 years of experience as a psychologist, I am dedicated to providing high quality, authentic compassionate support to all of my clients in a safe supportive space to help them find their purpose.
As a psychologist and coach I offer a range of services including one to one and group supervision, coaching and staff training. Learn more about my services here.
I can offer flexibility on working arrangements, work can be via virtual platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, telephone or in person depending upon your location and my work availability.
The pricing model I offer is tailored to suit the specific needs and requirements of each client. I can provide more information and discuss various pricing options during a FREE 30 minute consultation meeting.
One to one coaching and supervision sessions are typically one hour. Group supervision sessions are 90 minutes. I am flexible and can tailor session length and frequency to meet your specific needs and preferences.
To ensure that my services are a good fit for your needs, I provide a FREE 30 minute connection call to establish compatibility.
During our initial discussion we will engage in discussions to gain a clear understanding of your needs, goals and preferences. We will cover important topics such as confidentiality, ethical guidance and ways to make the most of our time together. This helps us to establish a solid basis for a working relationship. We will also arrange to build in time to recontract and make any necessary adjustments.
In my work I draw upon a range of psychological approaches and techniques that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. I draw upon solution focused questions, resilience frameworks, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), GROW (Goal, Reality, Options and Ways forward) and ecological approaches. This allows me to provide effective support and guidance that is personalised to the clients needs and goals.
Add in info about group supervision model and BPS training
As a psychologist, I strictly adhere to the confidentiality guidelines set out by the British Psychological Society and Health Care Professional Council. I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office and am compliant with General Data Protection Regulations. When you work with me, we will discuss confidentiality more during contracting. If you require any additional information please do get in touch.
I am thrilled to hear that you are interested in my services. You can learn more about individual services here. If you’re ready to chat, get in touch now and book your FREE 30 minute connection call.
I look forward to helping you ‘find your purpose’. You are worth it.
