Imposter Phenomenon (IP) refers to the feeling of inadequacy or self-doubt, where individuals believe they are not good enough or dismiss compliments as undeserved. This session explores how IP manifests in work and life, its impact on mental health (e.g., anxiety, depression, low self-confidence), and strategies to address it. Participants will reflect on recognising IP in themselves or others and learn approaches to improve mental health and wellbeing. While not diagnostic, the session provides insights into IP and practical ways to mitigate its effects.

 Dr Sharon Davis is a Chartered Psychologist and senior lecturer in the school of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Sharon has worked for more than 20 years in academia and has a background in applied research in maternity hospitals and prisons.  Sharon is the Chair of British Psychological Society in Wales and is working with public health Wales, psychologists from all different areas of expertise and influencing Senedd policy for developing the wellbeing of Wales. She is interested in psychology and behaviour and how this influences outcomes.

Dr Hayley Ness is a Senior Lecturer, chartered psychologist, and practising counsellor within the school of psychology and counselling. Hayley has worked within the school of Psychology and Counselling for 16 years as both a central academic and a staff tutor. Her original research area examined applied areas of memory and cognition, focusing on eyewitness memory and memory for faces, with interests spanning across the applied memory field into areas such as jury decision-making. Several years ago, she retrained as an integrative relational counsellor, specialising in couples.