I trained as an integrative therapist because I wanted to be able to adapt to my clients’ needs as therapy progresses. I work collaboratively with you, and we are curious together as we figure things out. The approaches I am trained in are:

• Psychodynamic. This helps you to understand ‘the presenting past’ - to explore how past experiences and unconscious patterns shape your current thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It also helps you to identify relational patterns, to understand, to resolve deeper emotional issues, and to move forward.

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. CBT helps you to identify and challenge negative thoughts and behaviours, understand what triggers you and why, and learn practical skills to manage your emotions and tackle everyday challenges.

• Person-Centred. This provides a non-judgemental, supportive space where to explore your feelings. This approach is the bedrock of my practice, and is collaborative: we are curious together about what might be happening, and why.

• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reintegration). EMDR is an evidence-based therapy endorsed by the WHO, NHS, and NICE. It has been shown to be effective for many issues including PTSD, complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, and relationship trauma.

WHICH APPROACH IS BEST FOR ME?

If we decide to work together, we would usually have some sessions understanding the lay of the land: what is going on for you, and what you would like to change. After 2-3 sessions, I will suggest the approach which I think will be most helpful, and check that you are happy with that.

How long does THERAPY take?

I work short-term and long-term, and it is helpful for me to know whether you have a timescale in mind when we start so that we work out some realistic goals for that timeframe. We’ll review progress together and adjust as needed.

What is EMDR?

EMDR focuses on the connection between distressing thoughts, emotions, and body sensations while using rapid bilateral eye movements to reprocess traumatic material in the brain. Other methods, like tapping, buzzers, or auditory cues, might also be used depending on your needs.

One aspect of EMDR that I really like is that you don’t need to talk through traumatic memories in detail. Instead, EMDR helps reprocess these experiences and reduce emotional or behavioural responses. Many clients report no longer feeling triggered by things that once affected them deeply — the main feedback is an absence of a reaction or feeling, which often has a domino effect on behaviours and outcomes.

This animated clip from EMDR UK explains EMDR Therapy.