Therapy

My approach

The philosophy that underpins the way I work is largely informed by the way I aim to 'be' in this world.

I believe in the power of connection and strive to facilitate it in all of my work. Many of us are experiencing a profound disconnection from ourselves, one another, and the earth. I don't think this is an accident, and it's not even directly our fault. It's a result of wider societal messaging by systems of power and influence. A highly capitalist and consumer culture thrives on our believing we are always one step away from contentment and connection. It also relies on us overriding our bodies to keep producing. Cue anxiety, depression, burnout, etc. How else should we be responding when 'free time' has become a commodity? This is only scratching the surface of the collective trauma we are currently experiencing.

The good news is that our bodies hold the key to our healing, and our relationship to them can be healed. Bell Hooks said, "healing is an act of communion". We heal in relationship, not isolation. My deep belief in this statement is one of the reasons I became a therapist.

I value curiosity over certainty, connection over correction, dialogue over definition, and exploration over explanation. This does not mean that I am against any of the latter; they just sit lower in my list of priorities.

While I have philosophies that underpin my work, I don't have one way of working. I'm a very fluid and creative person, and this influences my therapeutic approach. My approach is pluralistic and is characterised by compassion, curiosity, kindness, and authenticity. I adopt Alex Iantaffi's model of 'slow, kind, consensual, and embodied'.

I work with a broad range of presenting issues and have a special interest in the themes of existential and identity. I work in a person-centred, holistic, trauma-informed way with a contemporary understanding of the nervous system.

Finally, my approach is body-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and neurodivergent affirming.

I have experience working with...

• Anxiety and depression

• Stress and burnout

• Work-related issues

• Trauma and complex trauma

• Abuse

• Self-harm

• Suicidal ideation

• Eating distress

• OCD

• Body image, low confidence

• Gender and sexuality

• Gender Incongruence & Gender Dysphoria

• Existential and identity issues

• Religion and spirituality

Frequently asked questions

Where are you located? Is there parking?

The address for my therapy room is: Kibblesworth Millennium Centre, Grange Terrace, Kibblesworth, Gateshead NE11 0XN .

The centre has its own free car park.

How much does it cost?

Sessions are £50 and last 50 minutes.

What happens in a first session?

The first session will start with collecting some basic information, and then we will go through the contract together. I normally discuss my approach. After this, I will usually invite you to tell me about why you want to start therapy. Some people come in and lay it all out. Others might feel more comfortable with a more gradual sharing, perhaps across a few sessions. There really isn't a right or wrong. This first session is a great opportunity to get a feel for the way I work and whether I may be a good fit for you. The most important thing to know is that there are NO expectations from me. Your information is yours, and I will always value your autonomy and agency.

How do I know if you're the right therapist for me?

Trust your gut. Try to be aware of how our interaction makes you feel. Sometimes this can take a few sessions. Sometimes people know straight away. Here are a few questions you can reflect on after our first session.

Does my approach align with your goals and expectations for therapy? Did you feel safe, seen, and understood? Do you want to come back?

Is your therapy room wheelchair accessible?

The building and my room allow for wheelchair and walker access.

Do you offer evening or weekend sessions?

No. I am not currently able to offer sessions on evenings or weekends. My first appointment slot is at 9:30 am, and my last appointment slot is at 3:00 pm.

Have any questions?

If you have any questions about my services or would like to book a session, please send me a message.