Sometimes, even when you may seem fine from the outside, something still feels wrong on the inside.

Perhaps you are particularly worried, are having a difficult time at work or are struggling in relationships. Maybe you feel low, anxious, or simply want to talk to someone impartial. Panic attacks, a change in what we enjoy or a feelings of overwhelm can be an indication of something deeper needing attention. Big life events can cause us to think deeply and act in surprising ways, and sometimes we need support with stress, bereavement or just not feeling like ourselves.

It’s normal to wonder whether your difficulties are ‘serious’ enough for psychotherapy or counselling. The way I see it, if you’re struggling, talking to a professional can usually help.

I can help you look at how you understand the world, including your behavioural patterns, values and beliefs which affect everything you do. We can explore how these affect you emotionally and psychologically so we can work together to help you feel better, long term.

How I work

If you’re looking for a calm, accepting, non-judgemental space in which to share and explore your concerns, I can help.

I am an integrative psychotherapist which means I work with a few different ways, depending on what each individual client needs. For example, anxiety can affect sleep, relationships and even our relationship with ourselves. If you’re struggling day to day with this we would first look at ways of getting you back on your feet, through grounding exercises and coping tools.

When ready, then it’s time to look deeper.
Sometimes coping mechanisms which helped us in the past are no longer useful and can start to cause issues. Looking at our past experiences, even back to childhood, can help us understand why we do what we do and understand that these are learned habits. Untangling what’s happening in the present with past influences can bring clarity, release us from feeling stuck and help with relationship issues.

We all exist within a wider field of experience, including world events, family and group experiences, the workplace, our communities and more. Taking a step back to look at the bigger picture can often help bring a new perspective on what’s happening within us, on a smaller level day-to-day.

Often the ways we relate to others is reflected inside the therapy room. I like to work relationally which means observing our relationship and working out together what this teaches us about outside relationships. I see therapy as a collaboration between client and therapist, which means I will regularly check in with how you think it’s going, and whether we are getting towards any goals which may have been set. I like to also bear in mind that as progress takes place, shifts can mean that values and goals change over time, which is also important to pay attention to.

What to expect

I offer a free 20 minute phone call initially to see whether we are a good therapeutic fit. If I believe I know of another therapist who may be better suited to help with your individual issues I always aim to refer you on.

If we decide to work together I will collect a few details from you including you GP details and an emergency contact, and our first session will include an in-depth assessment. Once the assessment is complete, our following sessions will run for 50 minutes, at the same time each week (although I always try to accommodate diary changes if something comes up – life happens!). If you like, we can discuss how many sessions you think you would like, and we can work from there, however I often find it’s best to leave therapy open-ended to allow for whatever unfolds.

Alongside private practise I have three years NHS experience as an honorary psychotherapist working with a diverse client base on a wide range of issues. I have also worked with charities and private online counselling services.