Meet The Team

Director

Dr. Eva Coleman

I am a UKCP registered, psychoanalytic psychotherapist, with forty years of experience in the field. I worked in private practice, as well as a medium secure hospital, providing consultation and therapy for those with severe personality and mental health difficulties.
I set up and directed a counselling service for women in Brighton and Hove ( Threshold Women’s Counselling). More recently, I set up Brighton Therapy Centre, and was Clinical Director there for seven years.

I have been a member of an advanced, in-service practitioner training group for over twenty years . I have taught aspects of counselling and therapy and supervised those in practice. I have been a consultant and advisor to a number of local and national organisations.

I am not currently offering ongoing therapy , but I do offer consultations.

In addition to all of this, I am also a Trustee at ONCA, a Brighton based Arts Charity, that bridges social and environmental justice issues with creativity.

Mel Bates

I am a qualified Arts Therapist (1996), Creative Arts Supervisor (C.A.S.T., 2005) and Systemic Practitioner (Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, 2011) working in private practice with adults and children, as well as providing clinical supervision for psychotherapists, counsellors, drama, music, play and integrative arts therapists.  Over the years I have developed an interest in, and have gained further training in Attachment Theory, Working with Trauma and more recently, Infant Observation.

I am registered with the HCPC and a member of BADTH. I am a student member of the BPC.

Prior to working in private practice I was therapist at Respond, a charity specialising in psychotherapy for children and adults with learning disabilities who have experienced sexual abuse and trauma.  Previous to this I managed the Chrysalis Project, a therapy service for children affected by their family’s substance misuse.  I worked for Threshold Women’s Mental Health Drop-in Service as their Development worker and have extensive experience in working in schools and community settings. For several years, I supervised students on the Dramatherapy MA at Central School of Speech and Drama, London.

My experience has taught me that using creative arts methods can often offer helpful ways for a person to express their emotional lives and gain insight and understanding into their experiences and relationships. There is the opportunity to work with Sand tray, Improvisation, Working with symbols and metaphor, Puppets, Movement, Art-making, Working with myths and stories and Role-play. Sessions are client-led and there is no expectation to work in a particular way.

Zoë Boden-Stuart

I am a Gestalt Psychotherapist, having completed my training at the Gestalt Centre, London. I have seven years’ practice experience working with adults in IAPT, community therapy, women’s services and private practice.

I am also an academic psychologist specialising in relational and emotional experience in the context of mental health. My PhD explored guilt and interpersonal relationships. Prior to this, I trained as a contemporary dancer and worked within the performing arts industry. My arts and psychology backgrounds inform my psychotherapy practice.

I see therapy as a process of increasing awareness, self-acceptance and freedom through creative exploration. Together we can look at whatever patterns are occurring in your life and the feelings that arise around them. Gestalt focuses on what is happening ‘here-and-now’, but that doesn’t mean I will ignore what has happened to you in the past, or your hopes and fears for the future. I am interested in you as a whole person.

How you and I work together will be a process of discovery, but I find creative approaches, such as drawing and movement, can support some people to get to know themselves and their dilemmas.

I work with many types of distress, but I have particular strengths in working with anxiety, panic, developmental and sexual trauma (i.e. abuse, neglect, sexual violence) and a range of relationship and identity issues, including exploration of gender and sexual identity. I have also worked with clients who have mental health diagnoses and/or experienced substance misuse. I work inclusively, acknowledging and welcoming our similarities and differences.

I meet clients weekly at a fixed time for 50 minute sessions. I will either work on a long-term agreement (usually starting with one year) or for Brief Gestalt Therapy for 12 or 16 weeks.

Dee Churchfield

I am a Humanistic counsellor offering long or short-term counselling with adults. I am BACP registered.

As a Humanistic counsellor, I draw on the Person-centred theory. My belief is that every individual is unique, and that by working together, we can explore your story in a way that feels supportive and authentic. I offer a confidential and safe space in which you can discuss any difficulties you may be experiencing. I believe that within a therapeutic relationship in which you feel heard and not judged, you can gain self-awareness and understanding. This will enable you to trust in yourself, gain self-confidence, new perspective and make changes. I provide a calm, supportive place where we can work together, at your pace, to work on any issues you would like to bring to the sessions.

I am trained in Somatic Trauma Therapy. I integrate this approach to help clients with trauma, stress, anxiety and depression. When we experience trauma, our body releases stress hormones as a way to respond to danger – fight, flight, freeze or fawn. The body’s reactions can continue long after the incident or danger is over, and we may not understand how it is affecting the way we think and feel. Trauma and stress leaves a person dysregulated; often in a state of hyperarousal, or withdrawing and shutting down. In understanding how the trauma response affects us individually, we can learn to regulate, and process difficult emotions, thoughts and feelings.

I have worked with young people in a residential children’s home with emotional and behavioural difficulties due to complex trauma. Here I worked within a holistic framework which reflected the person centred philosophy of meeting and accepting the young person where they are; building self-esteem, resilience and supporting them to make positive choices.

Before becoming a therapist I worked in the film industry, where I enjoyed working creatively. It was important to be able to connect and work collaboratively, and I enjoyed working with people from all walks of life.

I have both personal and professional experience of supporting individuals who are neurodivergent.

Rachael McKeown

Counselling is an opportunity to develop a greater understanding of yourself which can increase the sense of freedom and control in your life. I offer clients a space to think deeply about themselves and their relationships in an open and supportive way.

As a psychodynamic counsellor, I am particularly interested in patterns of relating and feelings of which you might be unaware. These patterns and feelings often have roots in the past and within our sessions we will explore how past experiences are affecting the present.

I work with a range of conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement and relationship problems which can be felt differently for different people. It might be that you have a harshly critical internal voice that leaves you feeling worthless. You may be experiencing an overwhelming sense of loss or panic, or concerned you are cut off from your own feelings.

I have been a practicing counsellor since 2016 in both private practice and the charitable sector. I hold a Post Graduate Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling and am an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. I am a Cambridge graduate and hold a further degree in psychology.

www.spacetotalk.uk

Nadia Townsend

I’m a psychodynamic psychotherapist , having originally completed a rigorous 4 year training at WPF Therapy. I work in full time practice, in Brighton and London and I have considerable experience of working with people with a broad range of issues. I am a fully accredited member of the BPC (British Psychoanalytic Council) and the FPC (Foundation for Counselling and Psychotherapy).

I offer a space in which to explore whatever it is that you feel is causing you difficulty. We are none of us immune from suffering – you may have been struggling for a long time or perhaps a recent crisis has caused you to look for therapy. Whatever the reason, psychotherapy sessions can provide you with a crucial opportunity to process and reflect on struggles, think about relational patterns that might be unhelpful and explore how past experiences could be having an impact on the present day. You may have had previous experience of counselling or psychotherapy or this might be entirely new to you; psychodynamic work can be painful and take time, requiring courage to think about feelings that you may have tried to avoid for a long time. However, it can also provide enormous relief to find the safe and ongoing support with which to understand yourself better and start to change your relationship with yourself and others.

My usual fee is £60 but I can offer a reduced fee depending on your circumstances.

Dave Jordan

I am a UKCP-accredited Humanistic Psychotherapist and EMDR-trained practitioner with a background in education and the music industry. My therapeutic philosophy is grounded in the belief that the past shapes our present, in particular experiences from our early formative years. Exploring the impact of these experiences can help to understand why we feel stuck or why we continue to repeat unhelpful patterns and behaviours in our intimate relationships, our friendships or our professional lives.

Humanistic therapy helps to discover what is truly important to you and what is not, and thereby helps you make better and more informed choices. It looks to assist you in living authentically in accordance with your values, aspirations and limitations and in assuming an active role in your own growth. The process allows the potential for healing from the past and looking to the choices in the present which can allow for life to be different in the future. It also helps you to navigate, explore and make sense of what it means to be human.

My belief is that we all have the resources needed to heal and make changes in our emotional well-being. I provide a down-to-earth counselling style for people who feel they need support to explore themselves or simply a need to be witnessed and heard. I offer the opportunity to talk openly in a trusted, confidential and safe environment.

I work with my therapy dog, Paddy, who is specially bred and trained to support a calm and reassuring atmosphere in the room. He is hypoallergenic and very gentle.

Elena Gualtieri

I am a psychoanalytic psychotherapist trained at the Guild of Psychotherapists in London and a full clinical member of UKCP. I offer therapy in English and Italian. My background is in teaching, research and management in the University sector, both in the UK and abroad. I have experience of migrating and settling in different countries and cultures and an understanding of the significant personal challenges migration brings.

Psychoanalytic psychotherapy works on the premise that there is more to be known about ourselves than we think we do, which may feel scary initially, but can also be a source of growth, change and renewal. Some people come to therapy with a specific issue that they’d like to address; or as often happens, they may not have a name for what it is that afflicts them. I work on the principle that by listening attentively together we can find words for those difficulties, and a way through them. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy requires commitment and time to work. But it can be transformative in unexpected ways.

Melanie Barnard

I am a BACP registered integrative therapist, having completed my training in 2001.

I have many years of experience working in women’s services, trauma services and private practice which has included being clinical lead at 2 local counselling charities. 

As an integrative therapist, I draw on the methods and perspectives of a number of different schools of counselling and psychotherapy and understand that life can at times be overwhelming. 

When our lives seem disorganised it can appear challenging to see a clear path toward positive change. My aim is to create a safe, compassionate and supportive environment for clients to talk about feelings that may be troubling them with a view to fostering autonomy and change. Through awareness, an integrative approach helps to create a healthy alliance between mind and body – empowering clients to start setting goals and practising new behaviours that will enable them to move beyond their limitations and discover greater life satisfaction.  

I work with a broad range of issues including low self-esteem, stress, and relationship problems, families struggling with separation or divorce, unresolved childhood issues and trauma in both short and long term arrangements. 

Monika Stachyra

I am a trauma informed qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor  I believe therapy is about creating a safe and supportive space for exploring life transitions and challenges. The relationship with clients I aim for is based on collaboration and trust, which is an important vehicle for repair, grieving, learning and experimenting with what is new and possible.

My practice is underpinned by Transactional Analysis, which is an accessible approach that allows people to understand themselves and how they relate to others. As children and throughout life, we learn to behave and feel in certain ways, whilst these patterns are necessary to survive initially, they may get stuck in repeating similar relationships and situations. Therapy supports awareness, adaptation and letting go of what is no longer helpful. 

I integrate my core theoretical framework with other techniques and creativity so the process is flexible and allows for what can be difficult and unspoken to emerge. The client’s empowerment and consent are the key principles of my work.

The therapeutic process may encompass a wide range of issues, and the goal of our work can be focused on:

• exploration (e.g. I want to explore how loss/trauma affected my life)
• dealing with a specific issue (e.g. I want to deal with stress better)
• a clarification (e.g. I want to understand my relationships)
• development (e.g. I want to lead a more meaningful life)

My training and experience:

As a therapist I have been passionately involved in additional training, particularly in relation to attachment issues, trauma, body process and creative work.  I also undertake in-depth supervision to support my learning and development as a practitioner.

My background, prior to becoming a counsellor, is in the voluntary sector. I have worked with helping professionals and mental health practitioners in the NHS for the last 10 years. This experience, as well as my work as an interpreter in my earlier career, have given me invaluable understanding and compassion for people experiencing psychological difficulties and the circumstances in which they occur.

I hold:

• Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
• Diploma in Transactional Analysis Practice
• MSc Sociology
• MA Culture Studies (on sabbatical leave)

Fiona Paterson

Hi, I’m Fiona, a BACP-registered therapist. I believe we are all unique individuals, and while no one can fully understand exactly what you are going through, I can support you in exploring life’s challenges and making meaning for yourself in a validating way. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, identity exploration, major life transitions, and life-changing health diagnoses.

My approach is warm, grounded, and collaborative. I help clients explore meaning, identity, and the challenges of being human, while also recognising that our relationships, histories, and wider social and cultural environments shape how we experience the world.

Therapy is your space, and we go at your pace. I am alongside you to support your self-understanding and personal growth. I am committed to anti-oppressive practice and provide a safe, inclusive space for clients from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ communities. I believe in the power of authenticity, acceptance, and the strength of the therapeutic relationship to enable change.

Before becoming a therapist, I spent 25 years working across the public and private sectors, including frontline roles that required deep respect for confidentiality, complexity, and compassion. These experiences, along with my own encounters with therapy and significant life challenges, shape the empathy and attentiveness I bring to my work.

I hold a PGDip in Humanistic Counselling and Psychotherapy, an MSc in Forensic Psychology, and a BSc in Psychology. I offer both short- and longer-term therapy and am committed to ethical practice, regular supervision, and ongoing professional development.

https://ashorecounsellingandtherapy.com/

Elly Goodridge

I am a psychoanalytic psychotherapist and trained at British Psychotherapy Foundation. I am registered with British Psychotherapy Foundation and British Psychotherapy Council. I work in private practice and with the Phoenix Therapy Centre. Prior to this training, I have had 15 years experience of working in NHS adult mental health settings in a therapeutic capacity.

In Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy a consistent space is made where you can talk about anything that comes to mind. We work to understand how the difficulties which bring you to therapy might have a root cause in a hard to reach, or unconscious internal world. We listen to how the past might impact upon the present, and through a collaborative process of exploration it becomes possible to identify and understand repetitions in behaviours and ways of relating which might be holding you back. Treatment is open ended and takes time and commitment, however this process of understanding and learning more about yourself brings emotional growth and deep-seated change.

Arran Agyeman-Ellis

I am a qualified Humanistic Integrative Counsellor which means I draw from a variety of theoretical approaches and interventions to suit each individual person. As a humanistic integrative counsellor I believe that each individual is unique and therefore one size does not fit all. Therefore, I tailor my approach to meet the specific needs and goals of each person and what they bring each week.

I offer a warm, safe, boundaried, non-judgemental and confidential space where a person can talk about and explore their problems, issues or concerns. Counselling can help a person gain awareness, insight, cope with difficult feelings and emotions and develop strategies and techniques for managing stressful and difficult situations. I have experience supporting people who experience issues including depression, anxiety, stress, panic attacks, lack of confidence, self-esteem and self-worth.

I am also mindful of the fundamental importance of the therapeutic relationship which has the ability to promote healing and facilitate positive change within a person’s life. Building a rapport and a trusting relationship is at the heart of the work and can help enhance the overall success of the therapeutic process, produce positive outcomes from counselling and create change. I have experience of working with clients from different and varied backgrounds, cultures, religions, sexual orientation and with neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia).

Alongside being a Humanistic Integrative Counsellor I am also a qualified Holistic Life Coach and I take a holistic approach to coaching as I believe thoughts, feelings, body, mind and spirit are all interconnected. Therefore, within counselling there may be times where I draw from or use coaching in order to best meet the person’s needs. This may be when a person may be experiencing feeling stuck, disillusioned or finding it difficult to move forward. This process would include helping them to set realistic, achievable and time bound goals which in turn would help enable them to find clarity, move forward and create shifts and positive change within their life.

Outside of counselling I also have years of experience of supporting people within a residential home setting who experience things such as complex mental health conditions, learning difficulties and disabilities and autism.

I attend regular supervision and I am committed to my personal development and attend courses and training to improve my awareness and increase my knowledge, experience, skills and tools. I offer consistent regular weekly 50 min appointments at a fixed time. As I am a newly qualified counsellor sessions will be charged at a reduced rate.

Ayndrilla Singharay

I’m Ayndrilla (An-drill-ah, she/her), a humanistic counsellor and a member of the BACP offering sessions in central Brighton.

Counselling, or being deeply listened to, has been around as long as humans have been communicating with one another. In today’s busy lifestyle, it can be hard to find a moment to share and be truly heard by another person. I can offer you the time and space to explore whatever is happening for you right now. I aim to bring kindness and a non-judgemental approach to our work together. I will be alongside you as we try to make sense of some of the challenges that come with being human.

My work over the years has revolved around caring for people. I have eleven years of experience in the charity and teaching sectors and have worked with issues around domestic violence, children with special educational needs, illness, postnatal depression, estrangement, addiction and bereavement.

In addition to being a counsellor I am a mother and a writer. I have a particular interest in the experience of parenthood and how it can affect our sense of ourselves. I am also curious about the experience of feeling different, particularly when this feeling becomes overwhelming and affects our daily lives. I stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and welcome clients of all sexual identities. I strive to work in a way that is compassionate and anti-oppression.

Adam Bannister

As a Psychodynamic Psychotherapist I offer a confidential, supportive, and non-judgemental space to explore whatever may be troubling you. My approach is to listen to you and work in collaboration with you, at your own pace, to help make sense of the difficulties that you may be experiencing.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is based on the idea that the way we relate to ourselves, others, and the world, may be influenced by our past experiences and relationships. By exploring current difficulties and how these may be connected to painful past events and traumas, we can often release stuck emotions and repeated negative patterns of behaviour. Such an exploration may at times be painful; however, by doing so, it can lead to a better understanding of ourselves, personal growth, and change.

I have experience in helping clients with a broad range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, bereavement, anger, stress, and low self-esteem.

I offer weekly 50-minute sessions at our practice in Hove.

Stephanie West

I am a psychotherapist currently undertaking further advanced doctoral training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at the University of Exeter and the British Psychotherapy Foundation (BPF), leading to accreditation with the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC).  I have an MSc in Psychological Therapies Practice and Research (Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy) from the University of Exeter. I have also worked at Brighton Women’s Centre and The Clare Project as a therapist.

I meet with clients at least once a week for a fifty minute session, often without a fixed number of sessions in mind. Open-ended work gives space and time to explore things as they arise and at a pace that feels manageable. Sometimes it is helpful to meet for a few sessions to get a feel for what it might be like to work together before deciding to embark on longer-term therapy.

I have experience of working with those exploring their gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity (GSRD), early trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. As well as being a way of addressing particular problems, I believe that psychoanalytic psychotherapy can be a place for deepening self knowledge and self exploration.

Currently, I have a vacancy for three times a week intensive long-term psychotherapy that I’m able to offer at a reduced fee. Please get in touch if this is something you are interested in.

Izzy Sutton

Hello, I’m a trainee ‘Integrative Counsellor’ Your sessions are always focused on you. Your needs matter, it’s your time to feel listened to, accepted unconditionally in an empathetic space without judgement. A regular time you can put aside for yourself. I am down to earth, warm and welcoming. It’s important to me that you feel comfortable to be able to:

• Explore your journey: your life transitions/losses/choices/changes. What has brought you here, and how are you now?
• Release your emotions, thoughts and consider behavioural patterns. 
• Develop: self compassion, awareness and acceptance & explore the possibility of change.

My fascination with the psyche, early attachment patterns and the benefits of confidential therapeutic relational work has continued since I first studied Psychology & Sociology as an undergraduate. My 31-year NHS & Social Care career as a person centred holistic Occupational Therapist and work as a Best Interest Assessor has developed my empathetic compassionate insight and therapeutic skills.  I’m experienced in working therapeutically with people living with differences & disabilities, with mental illness, sensory based needs and learning needs. I have personal and professional experience of neurodiversity, particularly ADHD/Autism/Dyslexia. I prioritise and value my volunteer work -BERTS Brighton Refugee Trauma service (in 2024) and I currently provide weekly 1-1 bereavement support to individuals via CRUSE (UK Bereavement Support Charity)

My theory base (Psychodynamic-Humanistic) informs my relational integrative person centred approach, that your past helps inform the present, as does your here and now relational work.

• I focus with sensitivity and respect on us building a mutual trust-based relationship as a foundation to our working relationship.
• Our weekly supportive, confidential in person sessions aim to develop connection with empathy, so you begin to feel less isolated, and this may be what you are looking for.
• We’ll collaboratively explore your life narrative and your concerns and feelings. Your unique perspective matters. You may feel relational patterns repeat, feel out of control and want more satisfaction out of life.
• Nothing is too big for me to hear. Complex feelings can be unpacked, and first steps taken to feel more in control.
• You are the expert, and favourable conditions in our sessions will enable growth that is already within you.
• Discovering nuance within your patterns of relating, and links with past experiences, can open new personal potential here and now.
• I’m registered with HCPC, the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) as a trainee, and have an Enhanced DBS. I work with individual adults and young people 16+. I abide by the BACP Code of Ethics which underpins my work.
• I offer short and long term, weekly discounted in person 50-minute sessions at Phoenix Brighton.
• I undertake regular in-depth supervision with Phoenix Therapy Practice and attend personal counselling to continually develop my practice and self-awareness.

Jess de Bene

I am a UKCP Integrative Psychotherapist in training. My approach is relational, placing a trusted and non-judgemental therapeutic alliance at the heart of my practice.  As an Integrative practitioner, I draw from different theoretical modalities, including psychodynamic, existential and humanistic.

I have had substantial experience of working with bereavement and can support with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, loss and relationship problems.  Where relevant, I encourage the exploration of past relationships and experiences, noticing how these can shape how we relate to others in the present.  I am a compassionate practitioner who has worked with a wide range of people in my past career (both in the public and private sectors) and as an experienced trainee.

I can offer low-cost therapy working in close collaboration with an accredited supervisor. I am currently in my final year of a master’s degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy at Regent’s University, London.

Sally Harland

I take a humanistic approach to therapy, recognising that each person brings their own experiences, challenges and strengths. My training as an integrative therapist allows me to draw on a range of approaches—including Person-Centred Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Gestalt and Mindfulness—so I can adapt sessions to suit individual needs. I’m in the final year of my Advanced Diploma and am a registered member of the BACP.

At the heart of my practice is the quality of the therapeutic relationship—the power of a genuine, trusting connection. I work collaboratively with clients, offering warmth, empathy and a non-judgemental space where you can safely explore whatever’s going on for you. I have experience supporting people with anxiety, depression, stress, addiction, relationship challenges, loneliness, identity questions, and feeling stuck.

Before training as a counsellor, I worked for over 15 years as a caseworker and professional youth/community worker, supporting diverse individuals and groups across a range of settings—including young people, homelessness services, refugees and asylum seekers, addiction recovery centres, and trauma-informed environments. My work is grounded in a strong commitment to justice, equity and inclusion, and to creating safe spaces for growth and recovery.

Alongside my counselling placement, I work for a national mental health charity, based in GP surgeries and supporting people with a wide range of complex needs. I’m also a qualified yoga teacher and yoga therapist, with over a decade of experience helping individuals cultivate self-acceptance, regulate emotions and build self-awareness through mindful movement and breathwork. I have a particular interest in somatic bodywork and self-compassion practices, which often complement and deepen the therapeutic process.

Clients often describe me as warm, real, creative and down-to-earth, with a sense of humour that brings ease and humanity into the therapy room.

I offer discounted sessions while I’m in training.

Geri May

I am an experienced Psychodynamic Counsellor (BACP-Accredited member) offering counselling to both adults and young people (14+).  I have diverse experience and skills in short and longer-term counselling within a range of NHS, Charity and outreach services, and in private practice, university, secondary school and before training as a Counsellor (in 2013), in Children’s Services with mothers and fathers, children and babies both individually and running groups.

How I work

I understand the importance of taking the step into counselling, whether you are bringing long-standing issues, or coming for support in response to a recent crisis or concern- like many counsellors/psychotherapists I have personal experience of therapy and a deep understanding and belief in it’s power  to improve your mental health and relationships and to bring about meaningful change and hope for the future.

An initial session together is for you to share what you brings  you to counselling, ask questions, maybe identify some of what you would like to change and to get a sense of me as a person and counsellor.  If you decide you would like to work with me, we would agree on weekly, short-term or open-ended therapy of 50-minute sessions.

I work in a warm and collaborative way, offering a safe, confidential space for you to share, gain insight into and address the difficulties you are experiencing, while working at your own pace, enabling you to make sense of your feelings, beliefs and distress and, most importantly, to start to feel better.

Approach

I draw on my psychodynamic training which focuses on how underlying past experiences, especially those relating to family, can affect feelings and relationships.  This can bring powerful insight and understanding, enabling you to respond to life’s challenges and to distress/beliefs from choice and calm, rather than from reaction and to find a different, happier of thinking and feeling about yourself,  being in relationships and your future.

Adapting according to your individual needs and what feels right and helpful for you, I sometimes use additional approaches and counselling skills gained through further professional training/experience including family  and young people/relationship and parenting work, mindfulness, creative arts and what is being expressed in your body.

Diversity, inclusivity and identity are at the heart of my work and I have worked with a wide variety of people and age-groups (from 14-75) on issues such as depression, anger, relationship/family difficulties and separation, race/ethnicity and difference, stress, anxiety, low self esteem, eating disorders, life transitions inc. illness and aging, trauma, loss, domestic, sexual and physical/emotional abuse, parenting/father and motherhood, suicide, self harm, bereavement,  bullying, sexuality/gender, and addiction.

I have additional specialist training in Infertility and Miscarriage counselling, families/parenting, young people’s mental health (The Tavistock Clinic, London), working with men/fathers, mothers/ante-natal mental health, Post-natal depression, the experience/trauma of boarding school and working therapeutically outdoors.

I offer short-term parent/young person sessions together which can help  gain deeper understanding into difficulties and bring positive change in the relationship.

I work face to face, video or telephone counselling as well as sessions working outdoors.

Caroline Earles

I am a trainee psychotherapist registered with both UKCP and BACP. I am at the end of my second year of a 4 year Diploma course to become an Integrative Transpersonal Psychotherapist. I intend to continue my training and complete the MA in child, adolescent and family therapy at the end of my 4 years.

The Transpersonal approach is one that encompasses different modes of psychotherapy from CBT to the Humanistic approach and can take it a step further into the soul of the individual. I believe our connection to nature and the world around us cannot be underestimated. I see people as people, who they are now and am always willing to understand and learn from you. I believe everything we need to thrive is already inside us but sometimes we have forgotten how to get in touch with those parts of ourselves. It would be my privilege to accompany you on this journey as we navigate life’s challenges together, to find your truth. “The truth will set you free, but first it’s going to piss you off”

Lynn Ramsson

At the heart of my work as an EMDR practitioner and integrative psychotherapist is my belief in the potential of the past to impact the present. My therapeutic foundation is humanistic, which means that I feel strongly that enduring positive effects of therapy are possible for everyone. As an American living in the UK and a woman of mixed race, I understand how a sense of ‘otherness’ can influence how we interpret the world in which we all live.

Here at Phoenix, I offer EMDR, a powerful therapeutic technique that aims to help individuals heal from difficult experiences and painful memories. This technique engages specifically with the brain’s natural healing tendencies so that difficult feelings and beliefs become less impactful. EMDR is an effective approach for matters to do with self-esteem, anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, and many others, including PTSD and phobias.

Tom Wichelow

Hello, my name is Tom and I’m a trainee Integrative Counsellor completing a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. I’m a student member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work in line with their ethical framework.

With a background in the arts as a photographer and educator, I bring creativity, curiosity, and compassion to my work. As a trainee I offer weekly, 50-minute sessions for up to 6 months.  I am based at the Brighton practice.

My approach centres on building trust and collaboration, offering a scheduled space where you can feel listened to, accepted, and understood without judgement. Together we can explore what brings you to therapy, deepen self-awareness, and begin to ease life’s tensions. Drawing on humanistic and psychodynamic approaches, I tailor sessions to your individual needs and pace.

Alongside my private practice, I volunteer with CRUSE Bereavement Support, which continues to deepen my empathy and understanding of human resilience and growth.

Dr Kate Alexander

I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Parent-Infant Psychotherapist in training as a  Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist with the British Psychotherapy Foundation (BPF). I am registered with the BPS and the British Psychotherapy Council (BPC). I have worked for over 25 years in the NHS, and am currently specialised in Perinatal, Maternal and Infant Mental Health.

Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is a confidential and collaborative individual treatment taking place at least once a week for fifty minutes. It is a chance to reflect upon all aspects of your life and to deepen your capacity to live as fully as possible. It is particularly helpful for difficulties with:

• making and sustaining relationships
• confusions about sexuality
• concerns about identity and self-concept
• feelings of loneliness, emptiness or hopelessness
• chronic feelings of anger
• insecurity with work and colleagues
• long-term anxiety or emotional dysregulation i.e. feeling unsafe or disconnected.
• asserting your needs or knowing what you are feeling
• struggling to take up space, be seen or to simply exist

I work with an in depth understanding, and long term clinical experience of relational and complex trauma and somatic experience. This includes dysregulation in the nervous system e.g. experiences of high alert or hypervigilance, dissociation, and feelings of not liking, or not having a body (disembodiment).

Alfie Sheppard (they/them)

I am a trainee integrative counsellor currently completing Integrative Therapeutic Counselling (CPCAB) at CPTA Brighton, and a student member of the BACP. I work relationally, with a focus on how our experiences, relationships and environments shape who we are. My approach is adaptive and eclectic, aiming to respond to each person in a way that best suits them.

I believe in our capacity to grow and adapt around trauma. I am interested in how we make sense of our experiences and change the patterns we develop in response to them.

I aim to offer a collaborative, grounded and relational space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and emotions safely and at your own pace. My approach is reflective and curious rather than prescriptive, with a focus on building trust and creating space for understanding to develop over time.

My practice is identity-affirming, with an awareness of gender, sexuality and relationship diversity, neurodiversity, cultural difference, and the impact of stigma, marginalisation and wider social systems. I aim to create a space where you feel safe to be yourself.

Alongside my training, I bring over fifteen years of experience working in mental health, social care and community settings, including with people experiencing crisis, marginalisation, trauma, and complex emotional and relational needs. Alongside my professional and lived experience, I also come from a creative arts background, which informs how I think about expression, identity and meaning making within the therapeutic process.

I aim to support people to better understand how they relate to themselves and others, and to find ways of living that feel more meaningful, connected and sustainable.

As a trainee counsellor, I work under regular clinical supervision and in line with the BACP Ethical Framework.

Rebekah Few (she/her)

I am a trainee integrative counsellor completing my Level 4 CPCAB Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (BACP-approved) with CPTA Brighton. I am a student member of the BACP and work within their ethical framework.

My journey into counselling began long before my formal training. As a young carer for family members with complex mental health needs, I learned early what it means to hold space for someone in difficulty and how much that holding matters. That experience has stayed at the heart of everything I have done since: eighteen years working across NHS services, higher education, crisis support, and as a Freelance Mental Health and Wellbeing Consultant. Most recently I work as a Mental Health Mentor, holding therapeutic space for university students navigating academic and personal crisis.

I practise an integrative approach, drawing on humanistic, person-centred presence as my foundation, empathy, acceptance, being genuinely with you alongside psychodynamic curiosity about the patterns that shape us, Gestalt attention to what is happening in the here and now, and solution-focused techniques when behaviour change is part of what you’re seeking. I think of good therapy a little like a dance: sometimes I lead, sometimes I follow, always attuned to your rhythm and pace. My personal history with therapy gives me a deep respect for the courage it takes to sit in that chair, and a genuine belief in therapy’s capacity to change things.

I have a growing interest in neurodiversity, developed through my mentoring work with students, alongside a personal interest in relationships and intimacy.

As a trainee, I offer discounted sessions and work under regular supervision.

Clare Gannaway

I am a UKCP accredited psychotherapist working with adult individuals and young people (15-18).

Increasing awareness of your inner world and its relationship with both your past and your present can allow greater fulfillment and meaning in life. I provide a safe space for you to bring whatever is troubling or challenging you, where you can feel seen and heard, without fear or judgement. Through exploring and reflecting on current ways of being and relating, which often have their roots in earlier life experience, change is possible. I use both dream work and creative approaches to help you address, understand and process painful feelings and painful experiences.

I am especially interested in family-informed approaches, drawing on my experience at Brighton Women’s Centre as an honorary therapist, working with teens and their families at CAMHS and my extensive experience with teens in an educational setting. This has given me a deep understanding and insight into the huge significance family, community and society play in shaping relational and behavioural patterns. I have gained invaluable experience of seeing how relationships and behavioural conditions among family members can be improved.

Eurik Gilar

I am a psychoanalytic psychotherapist, a member of AGIP / CPJA-UKCP and a BACP-accredited psychodynamic counsellor. My background is diverse and includes an experiential and adventure education degree. I believe we all learn from experience and that learning and personal development, as well as healing and recovering from past hurt and trauma, is a life-long process. This process can be facilitated, encouraged and even re-started (when we get stuck on the way) through psychotherapy.

I have experience in helping clients with a wide range of issues, including various forms of anxiety, depression, trauma and bereavement and also issues around sexuality, gender identity and relationships.

My approach is suitable for adults of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life. I am LGBTQ+ identified and have experience in working with trans, queer and non-binary clients. I have a good understanding of polyamory, kink and other alternative lifestyle choices. My approach is in line with up-to-date research, inclusive and affirmative.

I am bilingual and practice in English and Czech.

http://www.gilarcounselling.uk

Jules Mercy  PG Dip Psychodynamic Counselling, BACP Registered, Relational Supervision

I have been qualified for 20 years, working with adults,long and short term. I have worked in generic therapeutic clinics, as well as specialist charity services concerned with all kinds of  abuse and also in the field of addictions. I was the founder and clinical lead for the counselling services at Brighton Women’s Centre, supporting women with multple disadvantages from 2006-16.

I offer Relational Supervision, drawing from Psychoanalytic and Humanistic schools for counsellors and psychotherapists.

I work from an understanding that our childhood relationships and experiences are  the roots of our difficulties, inform our understandings of ourselves and  draw us into relational patterns, dynamics and problems that can be life limiting.

I have experience in working with a wide range of difficulties or symptoms of distress including anxiety, depression, addictions, difficulties in relationships or work.I also have experience working with more  entrenched and chronic trauma such as shame, attachment difficulties, adoption and early losses which have impacted on growth and self esteem and the very core of ones selfhood. From my experience people tend to want to feel content, have meaningful lives with authenticity, joy and vigour but often struggle to reach these places due to a tangle of experiences and conditions that are still unfelt, unknown or unshared but still holding sway internally. When someone walks through my door I understand you as somehow being blocked in growing into who you are and meant to be rather than being ill. I see the mental and physical symptoms or problems being the psyche’s best effort to manage some deeper situation which needs exploration and be worked through.

Sometimes the work can be short term to find clarity or to navigate a defined problem whilst some people may choose a longer process of self discovery. I have much experience in working with issues concerning gender, sexuality, cultural differences, and the impact of othering and oppression. I am interested in identity and belonging, differences and uniqueness and also the things common that humans share such as uncertainty and losses of all kinds. I integrate western with eastern understandings and practices when helpful.

Maz Michael (they/them)

My core training is in Person-Centred Counselling and, as such, I see you as the ultimate expert on yourself. My aim is to offer you a trustworthy therapeutic relationship whereby you can feel free to explore and express whatever you feel you need to so that you can move forward in your life.

My view is that we are all unique beings and, therefore, what is helpful to one person might not be helpful for another. As such, I have undertaken further therapeutic trainings which compliment my core Person-Centred training and enable me to tailor the support I offer more fully to an individual’s needs and preferences. As such, I may work from a single modality or integrate my approach by drawing from one or more of the trainings that I am qualified in.

In addition to my core training:

I am an EMDR trained therapist. EMDR is recommended for PTSD and can be helpful for a number of other issues including: panic attacks, stress, phobias, self-esteem and addictions.

I also hold a post-graduate qualification in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach which, for example, can be extremely helpful in identifying and challenging unhelpful thinking or behaviours that may be perpetuating anxiety or depression.

I have also completed a Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) Foundational Training. DBT is typically recommended for people experiencing Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), as well as for anyone who struggles to regulate their emotions. I am able to offer DBT informed therapy.

My post qualifying trainings also allow me to offer individual and group mindfulness sessions. Although not a type of therapy, mindfulness does have a convincing evidence base in being therapeutic for anxiety, stress, depression and some other presentations.

Vicky Lebeau

I am a psychoanalytic psychotherapist with the British Psychotherapy Foundation/British Psychoanalytic Council). Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is a process of exploration, undertaken by the therapist and patient who meet regularly at least once a week for 50 minutes; treatment is usually open-ended. You are encouraged to reflect on feelings, thoughts, wishes, fears, memories, dreams – whatever is uppermost in your mind. In this way, we work together to understand the difficulties that have brought you into therapy. This is a gradual process that takes time, commitment and effort.

Psychoanalysis and psychotherapy have often been viewed as ‘exclusive’ forms of therapy, and sometimes difficult to access. My practice is attentive to issues of difference – be they of class, ethnicity, sexuality. I am also an elected Scholar of the British Psychoanalytic Council with particular interests in exploring these issues further within the profession.

https://vickylebeaupsychoanalytictherapy.co.uk/

Kate Winter

I am a Psychodynamic Counsellor and I offer therapy to adults experiencing a broad range of difficulties. I am an Individual Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and abide by their Code of Ethics.

I have worked in a variety of settings including the Police Service and Rape Crisis, and am experienced in working with clients who have experienced trauma in all forms, whether in early years, adult life or both. With additional training and experience working as a Yoga Teacher and Personal Trainer, I am particularly interested in the mind body connection and use of psychotherapy to explore this.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is based on the premise that unconscious thoughts and beliefs developed in infancy are at the root of our experiences as adults. As a result, we may find ourselves developing particular defences and repeating patterns in relationships. The aim of psychodynamic psychotherapy is therefore to bring what is unconscious into consciousness in a held and supportive environment. Through doing so, clients can explore alternative ways of being in the world and bring about lasting change.

Academic and professional qualifications:

• BA (hons) Sociology – The University of Warwick
• PGDip Psychodynamic Psychotherapeutic Counselling – The University of Brighton
• MSc Psychotherapy – The University of Brighton (ongoing)
• Yoga Teacher – 500hr accreditation with the Yoga Alliance
• Personal Trainer – REPs accredited

I have also undertaken specialist training on working alongside Trans, gender diverse and questioning people.

Dr. Lydia Rainford

I am a qualified psychoanalytic psychotherapist. After working in academic and pastoral roles in the university sector, I completed the clinical training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at the Guild of Psychotherapists in London. I am a Member of the Guild of Psychotherapists and a registered member of the UKCP. I have worked as a psychotherapist in clinics, charities and private practice since 2012.

I have experience of working with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, identity issues, relationship problems, eating disorders and illness. I take care to attend to the specific problems and history of each person beyond and in relation to mental health diagnoses.

At the heart of psychoanalytic psychotherapy is the recognition that our complex and often unconscious emotional life is fundamental to how we live in the world, and to our health and wellbeing. My sessions aim to build a stable, confidential space, where current emotional difficulties can be explored, and where strictures and repetitions in the client’s ways of being and relating to others might be realised, unravelled and experienced differently. Psychoanalytic treatment can significantly diminish psychological suffering and bring about lasting change.

Rachel Singh

MBACP-accredited counsellor (since 2015) with an Advanced Diploma in Humanistic Integrative Therapy (CPPD) and certified Mindfulness Now Teacher.

With over 15 years’ experience in the voluntary and public sectors, I have worked extensively with children, young people, and adults with autism—supporting them at home, in education, and in the community. My career has also spanned roles in autism-specific schools and private medical settings.

Having worked as a DBT (Dialectal Behaviour Therapy) therapist for 8 years I now offer short- and long-term trauma-informed therapy, drawing from my experience as a humanistic integrative counsellor.

I have completed a Foundation Course in Group Analysis (Institute of Group Analysis, London, 2024) and am building on this foundation to continue to develop expertise in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and other trauma-informed, therapeutic approaches.

I work with a broad range of clients, including those navigating:

– Autism spectrum conditions including Asperger’s
– ADHD and OCD
– Attachment-related challenges and anxieties
– Childhood trauma and bereavement
– Eating disorders and depression
– Cultural, gender, and sexuality-related issues

Empathetic and compassionate, I tailor my approach to meet each client’s needs and goals. For neurodivergent clients, I pay particular attention to sensory needs, social communication, and imaginative processing, offering tools and insights to help them understand themselves more deeply. This process often leads to greater self-acceptance, stronger identity, and meaningful lifestyle changes.

My priority is to create a safe, open, and containing therapeutic space for all my clients, where exploration of the self can unfold. Ultimately, I aim to support them in cultivating a greater depth of self-awareness, a stronger sense of self, and a more meaningful, fulfilling life.

Paul Chantry

I am a qualified counsellor and a registered member of the  BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and I have experience of helping people who suffer with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, low self-esteem, childhood trauma, relationship difficulties and family conflict.

Sian Jones

I am a Humanistic counsellor, with a post-graduate diploma from Brighton University, and am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy). I am a warm, compassionate person, and offer you a safe, down to earth, and non-judgemental space. Together, we can explore the meaning that you make of your lived experiences, going at a pace that feels right for you.

My practice is grounded in humanistic perspectives, mainly existential-phenomenological and somatic approaches, valuing the unique identity and experiences of each individual. My approach also prioritises the unique quality of each client-therapist relationship, and as such, I see counselling as something that we do together, building a relationship based on trust, understanding, and openness.

Before training as a counsellor, I worked as a Social Worker for over 12 years in many different settings, supporting children and families facing challenging circumstances and trauma, complex social issues, and disadvantage. I am also a qualified yoga teacher, and alongside teaching, I have established yoga projects within schools to support students to develop strategies to manage stress and anxiety and build confidence and self-esteem. I also currently work for a charity co-facilitating therapeutic groups for new parents. I use my training, experiences, and grounding in yoga to support an embodied approach to my practice, encouraging healing through self-awareness, and connection.

Natalie Woods

I am an Integrative therapeutic counsellor with 16 years experience of building trusting therapeutic relationships with people and providing a safe relational space where difficulties can be explored. It is this relationship between you and your counsellor that is so important in enabling you to get to know yourself better and reflect on the things you would like to do differently in your life and relationships. This relationship with me may bring to life relationship difficulties you are experiencing enabling them to be explored and worked through with me safely.

I have worked in a range of settings and my counselling work has brought me into contact with a wide range of people facing all sorts of difficulties including couples experiencing relationship difficulties, and I have worked extensively with LGBTQ individuals and couples. My own experiences of therapy have contributed to my ability to provide what can be a healing relationship to others. I am approachable and have the personal qualities that help people feel able to talk about their difficulties, although I understand that this can be difficult and I respect the client’s need to take their time with the counselling process.

In my couples counselling work I provide a supportive space helping the couple to understand each other better and explore the dynamics of their relationship, as well as enabling them to develop better communication and empathy for each other all of which can help with the ‘stuckness’ that can often be experienced in our relationships with others.

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and am committed to my on-going personal and professional development. I am professional in my approach whilst being very human!

Karen Macmillan

I am a qualified TA (Transactional Analysis) counsellor and counsel adults around a wide range of issues. These include: anxiety, family & relationship issues, depression, low self-esteem and boarding school trauma.  My role is to support you to find your own way through your difficulties while providing a safe, supportive and gently challenging relationship in which to find self-understanding, acceptance and change.  Where I feel it will be helpful, I share models, images and theory.

Inner change can happen at any point in our lives, when we are willing to take that first step.

“Start close in,
don’t take the second step
or the third,
start with the first
thing
close in,
the step
you don’t want to take.”

David Whyte, River Flow: New and Selected Poems

Boarding School Survivors:  For many ex-boarders the experience of being sent away to boarding school has a long lasting impact.  Some of the ways you adapted as a child to the school environment may have become problematic in your adult life now.  The privilege attached to private schools can make this difficult to acknowledge and talk about.  I have specialist training and experience in working with ex-boarders and can help you address issues arising from your boarding experience.

I offer both short and long term therapy.

I am a member of NCPS and UKATA, abide by their codes of ethics and am fully insured.

Eilidh Horder

I am a Registered Member of the BACP and I trained in counselling and psychotherapy at Regent’s University, London (PG Cert., PG Dip.).

People come to counselling for many reasons and walking through the door for the first time can be a brave step in itself. With an empathic ear, I offer a non-judgemental and consistent space. Together, we can explore any issues that may arise. Patterns of behaviour may come to light, perhaps behaviours that served a purpose in earlier life, but which are now harming rather than helping you.

You may arrive in counselling feeling confused, or not knowing what emotions you are feeling. Sitting with uncomfortable feelings and recognising that we are allowed to feel a spectrum of emotions – not just the ‘good’ ones – can be powerful. Sometimes we need to experience and express our difficult feelings to be able to heal and move forward. I believe that therapy enables us to become more self-aware so we can recognise and come to terms with what may have been holding us back, and grow from this.

Access to counselling for all is important to me, and I work inclusively, with a strong belief that our differences enrich each other’s worlds.

I am bilingual and offer sessions in French or English.

I work with adults for weekly 50-minute sessions.

Amy Gilbrook

Hello, I’m Amy. I am a newly qualified humanistic psychotherapeutic counsellor.

I believe that the relationship we create together may provide space for you to harness your own potential to find a way forward. Though there are aspects of our lives that we cannot change, we have a choice about how we manage the challenges we meet. Together we can explore your ways of relating to yourself, others and the world and how these may have been shaped by your past experiences and current circumstances. By enhancing awareness of your experience in the room together, we can get to know your different ways of being and repeated patterns of behaviour, opening up to the possibility of making different choices in alignment with your values as well as accepting all parts of yourself.

It can be a big step to seek and start counselling, so going at your own pace and finding the right therapist is all part of the process. I hope to allow you to explore what is going on for you with warmth, compassion and acceptance, including aspects of your identity such as race, culture, gender identity, disability, neurodiversity, social class and sexuality. I see it as my responsibility to educate myself about the importance of our differences in these ways in relation to your experience and our relationship and I am committed to anti-oppressive practice and being affirmative of your identity.

I am a member of the BACP and adhere to their ethical framework.

I have a medical and acting background and from my varied experiences in these fields as well as my current training, I have come to see how our minds and bodies are intertwined but many aspects of modern life may disconnect them. Finding a way to reintegrate them, such as by bringing bodily sensations to our conscious awareness as we connect with our inner world can be part of the healing process.

As I am a recently qualified therapist, I offer a reduced rate for counselling sessions.

Clodagh Hunt

I am a trainee psychodynamic psychotherapist, studying at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. I am a student member of the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC) and I follow their Standards of Conduct, Practice and Ethics. I welcome referrals.

Rebecca Ellison

I am a qualified counsellor and registered member of the BACP (British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists). I am a humanistic integrative counsellor offering a safe, accepting, confidential and nonjudgmental space to talk openly about whatever is troubling you. I believe that every individual is unique and has the potential to find their own solutions by exploring their issues, feelings, beliefs and behaviours. I will work with you at your own pace without judgment to create a trusting therapeutic relationship.

I have been a listening volunteer using a person centred approach for a national charity for over 8 years.  I come from a legal background advocating for individuals within mental health services. Life experiences have demonstrated to me the real need for excellent affordable counselling.

I can offer short and long term counselling at reduced costs.

Nour Talli

I am a psychodynamic counsellor and a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

Psychodynamic counselling is a form of talking therapy that helps you examine your assumptions, beliefs and behaviours. Together, we explore your early and recent life experiences to uncover patterns in how you perceive yourself and your relationships. This process offers an opportunity to reflect on and find words for what is troubling you, which is the first step towards meaningful psychological change that can bring relief and personal growth.

In our sessions, you will find a confidential space to explore and reflect on your thoughts and feelings as openly as you can. While this may be challenging at times, we will move at your own pace. Most importantly, therapy is not something done to you, but rather a collaborative endeavour where we work together towards your desired psychological change.

I offer counselling in English and Arabic.

Eli King

I am a BACP qualified queer, psychodynamic, anti oppressive therapeutic counsellor.

I offer a space that honours complexity, centres lived experience, and supports deep inner work. My approach is relational and curious, grounded in the belief that healing happens when we feel seen, heard, and understood, especially in the face of systems that have historically silenced or marginalised us.

I work collaboratively with individuals navigating questions of identity, trauma, relationships, and the emotional impact of oppression. Together, we explore not only personal histories and unconscious patterns, but also the broader sociocultural influences that shape our inner worlds. My practice is affirming of all genders, sexualities, races, bodies, and backgrounds, and committed to challenging the hierarchies and binaries that constrain us.

I provide a space to unpack the weight of survival, to unlearn shame, and to reconnect with parts of yourself that may have been silenced or fragmented. Whether you are seeking clarity, connection, or simply a space to be your full self, I welcome you just as you are.

Chloe Adams

I am a trainee Psychotherapist completing my master’s degree in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. I hold student accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and abide by this framework.
My previous work has brought me a wealth of experience in mental health and social issues. I have worked extensively with individuals navigating complex personal challenges, including trauma, addiction and relational difficulties. My experience and learning have equipped me with a deep understanding of human behaviour, resilience, and the transformative power of guidance and support.
I have always had a gentle approach within my work and believe therapy should provide a safe space where individuals can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Whether you are seeking to address past trauma, explore personal growth, or manage life’s challenges, I am here to provide a safe, confidential, and supportive space to guide you on your journey.

Aime Claude Ndongozi

I am a trainee Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist and a (mature) student on the University of Exeter’s Doctor of Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Clinical Practice course.

I am registered with The British Psychotherapy Foundation as trainee member and I adhere to their professional standards ( bpf-professional-standards-guidelines.pdf ).

Psychotherapy is a change of career for me. I have always been fascinated by how people find the strength from within to navigate through difficulties and live resilient lives. I find fulfilment in helping people on their journeys of self-discovery, integration and healing.

I bring into this work my diverse professional background, education, and rich life experience.

I have worked with vulnerable communities as a manager, research and training consultant and support advisor for over 23 years spanning charities, the civil service and local government.

My work has focused on supporting or leading services for people from many parts of the world who have experienced human rights violation and displacement. I have had the privilege of working with diverse, multi-cultural and intersectional teams and people.

My personal experience has taught me that each of us will go through tough times at some point. Our past can pursue and trouble us. Our present can be confusing and painful. Our future can be uncertain. We may experience distress on a temporary basis or struggle with deep-seated, long-term issues. For most of us, life is never straightforward.

We usually have our ways of coping with difficult moments and events in our lives. However, on our own, our distress can feel like too much to bear. We can feel overwhelmed, alone, unseen, unheard and out of control. This is when therapy comes in.

I work with clients using a psychodynamic/ Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy approach. This is suitable for you if you wish to explore how your deeper and unconscious thoughts may be impacting your current life situation and difficulties.

My previous training was in Spirituality, Philosophy (BA) and Refugee Studies (MA).

As a trainee, I have regular supervision from a qualified senior psychotherapist. I am able to offer a reduced rate.

Dr. Tarun Pamneja

I am a psychologist and a psychotherapist, working with individuals and groups.

I have worked in the NHS and charities supporting people diagnosed with severe mental illness and emotional distress since 1991. In my private practice, I work mainly with people who grew up in confusing and unsupportive circumstances, experiencing complex relational trauma and consequently can’t find meaning and purpose in their lives.

Psychotherapy is a specific kind of conversation meant to deepen your self-understanding. It can allow you to live better with yourself and have more satisfying relationships. If you struggle to understand your emotions and behaviours towards yourself or others, we can work together to bring more understanding and acceptance into your life.

I have extensive experience of working with people with psychiatric diagnoses and addictions and  supporting individuals identifying as sexual, racial, cultural and power minorities.

I trained at Metanoia Institute and the University of East London. I qualified with a Doctorate in Integrative Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. I have been in personal therapy for most of my adult life.

I have professional registrations with the UKCP and HCPC.

My current model of psychotherapy is mostly psychodynamic with a solid person-centred base. My main influences come from Jungian, Relational and Group Analytic schools.

Andrea Carter

I am a qualified Humanistic Counsellor working with adult individuals.  I trained at Chichester University, qualifying with a diploma in Humanistic Counselling in 2020. After a further two years of study, in 2022, I attained a degree in Humanistic Counselling. I am now working towards accreditation.

My work is informed by the various approaches within the Humanistic and Person-Centred Therapies. I hold a view that people are unique and creative and so naturally adapt my approach to the person in front of me. Some favoured approaches within these modalities are person-centred experiential, relational approach, focus-orientated, emotion-focused, existentially informed person-centred therapy and solution focused therapy.

I am interested to discover how you make sense of your situation or issue, or how you arrive at conclusions about yourself or others and what it is like to be you. I will work with you in the here and now to gently challenge what you bring. The potential for growth or enhancement I believe is always present even if those are experienced as small shifts in the direction of a specific goal or about wanting to feel better about yourself.

Grief work and loss have been at the heart of my training and continues to be of interest to me. I have experience of having worked sensitively with the bereaved and pre-bereaved at a local hospice and more recently working for a charity with clients bereaved by suicide. I co- facilitate a bereavement support group.

My training included working for a charity in the community with older adults who lived with limited mobility. During my time there I worked with a variety of client issues and situations including loneliness and isolation, chronic pain, redundancy, financial worries and relationship problems, depression and anxiety.

As well as my private practice I currently work for a community mental health service and bring experience of working with clients who come with complex needs such as those affected by substance and alcohol abuse, domestic abuse, and living with suicidal thoughts.

Primarily I believe it is the quality of the relationship between us that is the key ingredient in promoting change. It is Important that you feel comfortable and safe in my presence and get a sense of there being a connection between us.

As a registered member of the BACP (394091) I adhere to the principles and values set out in the Ethical Framework ensuring that I practice ethically and safely and to continuous professional development.

Emily Wright

I am a trainee Integrative counsellor, registered with the BACP. I draw on person-centred, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) approaches in my work. This means that I approach our work together through listening and understanding your experience, believing that you have the potential to change and grow in the way you want, when you are heard and understood; and that if it is helpful to you we can also examine some of your patterns of relating, as well as your current thoughts and look at whether they are currently serving you. My belief is that our relationship underpins all of this, and should be collaborative. I offer a containing space where you can express who you are and feel accepted as you are right now, as well as feeling out a space for change and growth in the direction you choose.

I have a background in Deaf Studies and care work supporting d/Deaf adults with learning disabilities and mental health problems, as well as personal and professional experience of working with neurodiversity. This has given me insight into working with people with a range of diverse life experiences and means that I take an inclusive approach to neurodiversity and other differences.

My own experience of receiving therapy has shown me how important the relationship between client and therapist can be. To this relationship, I bring an interest in awareness of bodily sensations in response to thoughts and emotions, and how our ability to regulate our nervous systems can interplay with our experiences.

Judy Csiky

I am a Psychodynamic Counsellor in training. I have a warm, compassionate attitude and I aim to create a safe and welcoming space for all my clients. My work is relational, attachment-focused and trauma informed. I work in an inclusive way, and I am particularly drawn to working with marginalised people. I am LGBTQ-identified with lived experience of neurodivergence. I have an arts and crafts background, and I bring my creative thinking into my counselling. I’m bicultural and bilingual which makes me very interested in exploring experiences of being uprooted and what it means to belong.

I believe most of us can benefit from counselling, no matter how small or big our difficulties seem. Counselling makes us more aware of who we are and how we came to be the way we are today. It makes us more resilient and compassionate towards ourselves, helps improve our relationships and heal from painful experiences. When we are safely held within a supportive counselling relationship, making changes to improve our lives becomes easier. I enjoy walking alongside my clients as they journey towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.

I am committed to making therapy more accessible and I offer reduced rates. I can offer counselling in English and Hungarian.

Naomi Burl

Hello I am Naomi and I am completing my Level 4 Diploma in Integrative Counselling Therapy. I am passionate about supporting people towards self-understanding and navigating their lives by practicing a range of counselling techniques drawn from both humanistic and psychodynamic modalities. I aim to create a calm and safe space where the therapeutic relationship can gently develop, individuals can express themselves in their own way and work through their challenges at their own pace.

Dana O’Donnell

I’m a BPC Psychodynamic Psychotherapist in training, currently studying at Tavistock Relationships. I’m training to work with both individuals and couples. My professional background is in adult mental health within the NHS and community settings, and I have experience supporting neurodivergent clients, including those with ADHD, Autism, PTSD, and EUPD. Personally, many years spent living in India have given me a psycho- spiritual outlook on life and I have a deep interest in mindfulness and the mind- body connection as well as being a trained yoga teacher.

I offer a warm, reflective, and non-judgemental space to explore whatever’s on your mind—whether it’s anxiety, trauma, identity, relationship issues, or something harder to name. All parts of you are welcome here. I work psychodynamically, helping you understand how past experiences and unconscious patterns may be influencing your present life.

In my work with couples, I support partners in reconnecting, working through conflict, becoming aware of unhelpful patterns, and making thoughtful decisions about the future of their relationship. Couples therapy can help you understand each other in new ways and move forward with greater clarity and care.

My approach is grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect. I welcome clients from all racial, ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. My practice is LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergence-affirmative and I am committed to supporting diverse identities and experiences.

I offer weekly 50-minute sessions and am currently accepting new individual and couple clients at a reduced rate. I look forward to meeting you and beginning this work together.

Nayia Solea

My approach
I am currently training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, aiming to help my patients resolve deep-seated emotional problems and obtain self-awareness, by exploring unconscious influences on their current behavior and relationships. My practice is also informed by cognitive behavioural approaches, which I use, as needed, to support your specific needs. Together, we will focus not just on what is happening now, but on understanding why, allowing you to overcome challenges and build new ways of relating.

I believe that the most profound and lasting change therapy can bring, starts with a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. This foundation is what enables change and allows us to navigate challenges.

My Experience 
I am a trained Psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology, and currently undertaking a PhD in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Over a decade of work in diverse settings,from corporate environments to public sectors in the UK and Australia, has given me experience in supporting a broad range of clients, including first responders and academics.

I am experienced in working with individuals impacted by direct and secondary trauma, as well as those impacted by anxiety and depression spectrum conditions. My clientele to-date has been widely diverse, encompassing individuals from culturally and sexually diverse backgrounds and those across the neurodiversity spectrum.

Dr Jeremy Niven

I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist (accredited by the UKCP) and an EMDR therapist (member of EMDR UK).

I have broad clinical experience having experience working in the criminal justice system, a psychiatric hospital, charities and private practice. I offer open-ended or short-term psychotherapy. I offer a non-judgemental, supportive and confidential space in which to explore the challenges and difficulties you are facing. This space can be a source of change and growth through linking past and present experiences and understanding their meaning. I have experiences working with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and loss, identity, sexuality and relationship difficulties. I also have experience working with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and psychosis recovery.

I have also trained as an EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing) therapist. I offer EMDR for a range of issues including difficulties including trauma, phobias, addictions, early childhood experiences and attachment, depression, and as part of a broad approach to OCD. EMDR is a NICE (national institute of clinical excellence) approved therapeutic approach for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).