Working with me
We will primarily use the IFS (Internal Family Systems therapy) framework to explore the roots of and find relief for your challenges. I integrate this approach with my understanding of neuroscience and clinical medicine, as well as mind-body approaches such as trauma sensitive yoga and somatic experiencing.
IFS is a collaborative approach to therapy that works to access your innate ability to know and navigate your emotions, rather than teaching you external coping or management strategies. We work together to understand your psychological system and how to more consciously work with the complexities of the conscious and unconscious mind. We work towards insight and relief for your challenges in session, and to improve your ability to create clarity and space for yourself independent of therapy over time.
You can find further resources and demonstrations of IFS sessions here.
My Approach
During a typical session we will start with what feels important to you in that moment, and move between three elements (see the adjacent box) as is relevant to your needs. I leave time at the end for safe closing and to address anything you need in between sessions. I also leave buffer time before and after sessions with you in case we need to address any urgent issues that arise.
Discovery
We take time to map and get to know the different aspects and experiences within you that come up in response to the challenge you are facing.
Connection
We work to build better space and clarity around these aspects and create a sense of safety and understanding with difficult experiences, to facilitate change.
Shift
We enable the release of beliefs or emotions that you are ready to shift both conscious and subconsciously, and support the formation of new roles for the parts of you that were stuck in those ideas and experiences.
Who can benefit?
IFS has been shown to help with a range of challenges including but not limited to:
helping to heal past trauma
relieve anxiety and depression
improve relationships
reduce procrastination
address self-harm
addictions and eating disorders
boost self-esteem and self-confidence
navigate feelings of being stuck in work, relationships or life
preparation and integration of entheogen assisted psychotherapy
sex, gender and sexuality
potentially aiding in managing chronic pain
I do not work with (but can refer) those with complex care needs e.g. -
Life threatening eating disorders, addictions or self harm that require inpatient care
psychosis or other psychiatric conditions requiring inpatient care
Cost and Time
I work on an income adjusted basis of £80-120 for a 70 minute session and offer online and in-person (St Johns Wood, London NW8, UK) sessions. Please see the sliding scale section below for more details. [In-person session currently paused]
I find 70 minutes to be effective and efficient without being rushed, however can adjust session time according to your needs. I keep a 20 minute buffer between sessions in case urgent issues arise towards the end of a session to reduce the risk of abrupt session endings.
I suggest planning for 5 to 10 sessions to see change for straightforward challenges, although it can take longer term work to see the full benefits of the model.
I know that finding the right therapist can be expensive and stressful and am happy to discuss ways I can make this process less challenging.
I also have a limited number of low income slots available for students or those in financial difficulty. Please contact me for more information.
Sliding scale: The £80-120 range is a common therapy practice designed to improve accessibility. My support is the same regardless of how much you can afford. If you are unsure I am happy to discuss a rate that is sustainable for you on an introductory call.
You can click here to access resources to help you better understand different types of therapy and what to look for from a therapist.
Safety and Accountability
I am fully insured. I have regular supervision with an experienced UK based psychiatrist and therapist to review & support complex cases, as well provide ethical and safety oversight to my work. I do regular peer supervision and practice. I have regular therapy for myself to ensure I am showing up for clients at my emotional best, and I invest in continued education programmes and conferences to improve my skills and stay up to date on the latest developments in mental health.
Before we start working together I will send you a therapy agreement that covers aspects like crisis management, what to expect during and after sessions, and ongoing support.
As we work together if you decide you'd like to try another approach to therapy, or another facilitator, I will try to help you to find the right referral and path for your needs.
I am not a BACP or UKCP accredited psychotherapist as the models I am training in and find effective are not currently offered as part of UK accredited courses. I do not work as a license medical practitioner and do not prescribe medication or provide medical advice.