Natalie McIvor - Profile

Navigating life can be difficult —old patterns and coping mechanisms no longer serving us, leaving us feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Traumatic events, particularly those stemming from early attachment experiences, can have lasting effects on how we relate to ourselves and others. Disruptions in early caregiving relationships may result in attachment trauma, which can manifest as anxiety, fear of abandonment, difficulty trusting others, or a persistent sense of disconnection. These experiences can also contribute to addictive behaviours such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex, or food as ways to numb or escape unresolved pain. Together, we can explore healthier, more enriching ways to heal and create meaningful connections.

A key part of my approach integrates somatic alignment—an understanding of how our bodies hold stress, trauma, and unprocessed emotions. Attachment trauma, in particular, is often stored in the body and can shape how we respond to relationships and stress throughout life. By working gently with your bodily sensations and responses, we can uncover where tension is held and develop greater awareness of your physical and emotional states. This alignment helps you reconnect with your body’s innate wisdom, fostering a sense of self-regulation, safety, and empowerment.

Over the years, my personal and professional interests have increasingly centered around neurodiversity and its profound impact on mental health. I have experience working with clients on the Autism Spectrum (ASD), Asperger’s, ADD, ADHD, and Dyslexia. By understanding the unique ways neurodiverse individuals experience the world, I aim to create a therapeutic space that is inclusive, empowering, and tailored to their needs.

I also work closely with women and their partners who are navigating the challenges of menopause and perimenopause, a phase of life that has historically been misunderstood and overlooked. Many women do not realize that the symptoms they’re experiencing—such as anxiety, emotional volatility, grief, and a sense of loss—are tied to hormonal changes. This can lead to feelings of isolation and confusion at a time when emotional support is essential. By addressing these issues with compassion and insight, I help clients find clarity and resilience during this significant life transition.

I am passionate about talking therapy and its ability to help us uncover the underlying reasons behind our emotions and behaviours. Through an integrated approach, I work collaboratively with you to explore your unique experiences, including those shaped by attachment trauma, feelings of disempowerment, or hopelessness. This process not only helps you understand yourself more deeply but also enables you to communicate more effectively with others, creating space for growth and positive change where it once seemed impossible.
Working together, we can begin to create value and meaning in your life, empowering you to navigate challenges with confidence and renewed purpose, building stronger connections.

3 years working relationally in grief and loss as a counsellor at Phyliss Tuckwell Hospice in Farnham supporting bereaved families, carers and palliative patients.