What to expect
There is no right way to start the therapeutic process. We can begin exactly where you are and work with what unfolds – even if that feels uncertain or difficult to put into words.
Some sessions may feel reflective and exploratory, taking a look at past experiences that may have shaped where you are today, while others may focus more on processing, self-understanding, or navigating current challenges.
Our work will be collaborative, combining your knowledge of yourself with my therapeutic experience to help tune into may be happening. I will offer observations and perspectives, introduce therapeutic techniques and exercises where appropriate, and gently challenge you when I feel it could be helpful.
You remain the expert on your own experience, while I bring the therapeutic knowledge and skills to help guide the process.
We can build a steady and grounding space where you feel able to show up as yourself, while having the support, curiosity and structure and to move towards greater clarity and change.
“Having someone to speak openly with about feeling embarrassed and like the worst person in the world, warts and all, has helped release some of those feelings. I’ve begun to accept myself.”
– Online client reflection | more >
My therapeutic approach
My practice has developed over several years of working with adults in both individual therapy and group settings, through private practice, a number of UK charities, and an outdoor trauma recovery programme.
We all relate to the world in our own unique way. As an integrative therapist, I have extensive training in a number of psychotherapeutic approaches, rather than working from a single model. This enables me to tailor the therapeutic process to each individual person's needs.
As I begin to learn more about you and how you experience life, I will adapt our sessions by integrating a number of psychotherapeutic approaches that are bespoke to you, what you bring to each session, and what feels most supportive for you in the moment. My work is primarily influenced by:
At the heart of my work is the belief that meaningful change can happen when we feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted by another person. Often this happens beyond the roles, expectations, or protective patterns we may have learned to carry. My practice is grounded in a humanistic, person-centred approach, with the therapeutic relationship forming the foundation of our work together. I view each client as the expert of their own life, and aim to create a space that feels collaborative and compassionate.
/ Humanism
/ Compassionate Enquiry
Compassionate Enquiry is a psychotherapeutic approach developed by Dr. Gabor Maté, that explores the connection between our emotional experiences, beliefs, coping patterns, and the body. We may explore deeper needs or truths that have become difficult to connect with or express over time. I hold a particular interest in emerging research exploring links between chronic emotional stress, nervous system dysregulation and physical health conditions, which continues to inform my perspective as a therapist.
At times, our work may involve slowing down and helping the body feel more grounded and regulated, particularly when stress, anxiety, trauma, or overwhelm are present. By supporting nervous system regulation, we can often begin to experience greater emotional stability and capacity to navigate life’s challenges.
/ Polyvagal Theory
/ Internal Family Systems
Drawing on elements from Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help us understand the inner conflicts we might experience. A useful starting point for relating to IFS can be: if you’ve ever noticed yourself saying “part of me [feels/needs/wants]…”, IFS offers a way to explore these ‘parts’ more deeply, and especially those that are self-critical, ashamed, or protective. While I integrate IFS-informed ideas rather than working as an IFS-certified therapist, exploring our inner dynamics can help us get to know ourselves better, and build greater self-compassion over time.
If you have any further questions about therapy or what the process might look like, you may find the answer within Frequently Asked Questions.
If you’d like to ask anything else, or explore whether working together feels right for you, you are welcome to get in touch for an initial chat.