Psychotherapy & Counselling

As part of the human experience, most of us will face mental health challenges at various points in our lives. This is not an exception but an inherent aspect of being human. My practice is trauma-informed, with a particular focus on how challenging interpersonal experiences and events shape our everyday lives, often from childhood. When labelled with anxiety or depression, individuals often internalise these diagnoses as fundamental aspects of their identity. In my experience, the symptoms of trauma (Fig 1) themselves are often treated as separate and discrete problems, rather than investigated at their source. I aim to create a space where clients feel understood, not alone, and supported in addressing the roots of their distress.

Interpersonal adverse events, sometimes referred to as ‘small t’ trauma, can be as impactful as major incidents, especially when repeated over time. Experiences such as school bullying, critical caregiving environments, or relationship breakups are often minimised, yet they can leave deep, lasting negative beliefs. These narratives can contribute to anxiety, shame, somatic reactions (including panic), low mood, eating difficulties, addictions (including work), health concerns, and loss of hope. When we recognise and reframe these responses as human adaptations to adversity, rather than personal inadequacies, we create space for processing, healing and the return of balance and self-determination.