Maddy Nicholson

Prior to working at Wrexham University (WU), Maddy was a Senior Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist and subsequently a Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist in Persistent Pain Management in Betsi Cadwaladwr University Health Board. 

During the former role, Maddy trained in acupuncture, manual therapy and movement re-education, and during the latter, in non-medical prescribing, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindful movement and trauma informed practice. 

Upon commencement at WU in 2019, Maddy began as Undergraduate Physiotherapy Practice Education Lead, then moved to Programme Lead for Physiotherapy.

In 2023, Maddy began a role Principal Lecturer in Post Graduate studies in Allied Health and Nursing, supporting enhanced and advanced clinical practice, non-medical prescribing, emergency practitioner/nursing, health visiting, school nursing, community specialist practice, compassionate leadership and professional practice in health masters programmes.

Maddy's main interest is in the use of motivational interviewing (MI), a conversational style that is compassionate, in partnership and aims to empower people in their change and growth. Maddy became an MI Trainer and member of the MI Network of Trainers (MINT) in Estonia in 2019. MINT is a network that aims to ensure good practice in the use, research and training of MI. 

Since then, Maddy has trained substance misuse workers, psychologists, AHP's, sport rehabilitators and nurses. Maddy has presented her PhD work on the use of MI in physiotherapy both nationally and internationally. More recently, Maddy is interested in the use of MI within the HEI setting and within leadership and organisational management.

Maddy is an HCPC visitor, a PSRB (CSP) Abstract assessor, has been an External Examiner and is a Member of the MINT UK and Ireland committee.

Maddy enjoys playing tennis, netball, skiing, football, cricket, bouldering and paddle boarding.