I am an integrative psychotherapist with over 10 years’ public and private sector experience. Having worked in the NHS and charity settings such as Samaritans, Cruse and Mind, I have varied experience to draw on, in addition to 5 years’ training at the Metanoia Institute, where I studied various approaches, including CBT, Psycho-dynamic and Relational ways of working. More recently, I trained to become a qualified EMDR practitioner, which is part of the way I work, if the issue is past or recent trauma. Areas in which I have had working experience include: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, attachment issues, ‘borderline’ (emotionally unstable) personality disorder, bereavement and loss.
Moving on to you, the client, I know that making the decision to come to therapy can be difficult. That’s why, as your therapist, I’ll try my best to put you at ease from the start in a safe and confidential setting where we can explore the issues that brought you to therapy. I understand that some problems are difficult to voice. You may feel embarrassed, anxious about talking. On this you will find me patient and understanding. We will proceed at a pace that suits you. I’ll listen, you’ll be heard and understood, which I know is something that may have been missing in your life. Therapy can take time, so if you need long-term help that’s fine. On the other hand, you may be coming with a specific problem that we can resolve in a short time. That’s okay, too. How we work, how long it takes, we can decide together in the early sessions and if needs be, modify as we go along.
In the first session[s] we will: 1. Identify the issues that are troubling you. 2. Set clear and flexible working goals, which we can modify as our work progresses. 3. Explore your support networks, family background and any relevant issues from your past that affect your life in the present. 4. Discuss session timings, boundaries, fees, confidentiality and other procedural issues.
