My Approach

How I work

I believe therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each person’s experiences, challenges, and goals are unique, which is why I take an integrative, personalised approach to treatment. Rather than applying a single method, I work collaboratively with you, drawing on a range of evidence-based therapies to find what works best for your needs.

At the heart of my practice is a commitment to compassion, understanding, and creating a safe, supportive spacewhere you feel truly heard and valued. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, my goal is to help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, recognise unhelpful patterns, and build healthier ways of coping.

I integrate a variety of proven therapeutic approaches, including:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) – Processing trauma and distressing experiences.
Interpersonal Psychotherapy Therapy for Depression (IPT) – Exploring emotional wellbeing through relationships.
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) – Reducing self-criticism and building self-compassion.

By combining these approaches, I tailor therapy to meet your individual needs, ensuring you receive support that feels both effective and meaningful.

Therapy is a journey we take together, not something you have to face alone. My aim is to empower you with the tools, insight, and confidence to create lasting change. If you’re ready to take that first step, I’m here to support you.

< Back

Treatment

Specialising in Anxiety, Depression and Trauma

Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, uncertainty, or perceived danger, but when it becomes overwhelming or persistent, it can interfere with daily life. It often involves excessive worry, fear, physical tension, and difficulty relaxing, even when there is no immediate threat. Anxiety can manifest in different ways and may develop into a specific anxiety disorder.

Types of Anxiety Disorders:

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – Persistent, excessive worry about everyday situations, often without a clear cause.
Panic Disorder – Sudden, intense episodes of fear known as panic attacks, which may include a racing heart, breathlessness, and dizziness.
Social Anxiety Disorder – Intense fear of social situations, leading to avoidance or distress in interactions with others.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviours (compulsions) that feel necessary to prevent distress or harm.
Health Anxiety – Excessive worry about having or developing a serious medical condition, despite reassurance from doctors.
Phobias – Intense fear of specific objects, situations, or environments (e.g., heights, flying, needles).

Anxiety disorders can be distressing but are highly treatable with therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT). With the right support, it is possible to manage anxiety and regain a sense of control.

Depression

Depression is more than just feeling low or having a bad day—it’s a persistent feeling of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness that can affect every aspect of life. It can lead to loss of motivation, fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Depression can vary in severity, from mild but persistent low mood to severe episodes that make daily activities feel impossible.

Types of Depression:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) – Intense, long-lasting periods of low mood, lack of interest, and emotional distress.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) – A chronic form of depression where symptoms last for two years or more, often less intense but still impactful.
Postnatal Depression (PND) – Depression that occurs after childbirth, affecting emotional well-being, bonding, and daily functioning.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – Depression linked to seasonal changes, often occurring in winter months due to reduced sunlight.
Depression with Anxiety – Many individuals experience both depression and anxiety, leading to increased feelings of tension, worry, and emotional exhaustion.

Depression is treatable, and therapy can be a crucial step toward recovery. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help individuals understand their thoughts and behaviours, develop coping strategies, and work towards lasting emotional well-being.

Trauma

Trauma occurs when a person experiences or witnesses a distressing event that overwhelms their ability to cope. It can leave lasting emotional and physical effects, impacting self-esteem, relationships, and daily life. Trauma responses vary—some individuals experience flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, or emotional numbness, while others struggle with anxiety, depression, or difficulty trusting others.

Types of Trauma-Related Disorders:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Persistent distress following a traumatic event, leading to intrusive memories, heightened anxiety, and emotional detachment.
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) – Often caused by prolonged trauma, such as childhood abuse or domestic violence, leading to difficulty regulating emotions, low self-worth, and relationship struggles.
Acute Stress Disorder – Short-term trauma response that occurs within weeks of a distressing event, with symptoms similar to PTSD.
Developmental Trauma – Early-life trauma that affects emotional and psychological growth, often leading to long-term difficulties in self-esteem and relationships.

Therapies like Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) are highly effective in processing trauma, helping individuals regain a sense of control and emotional stability. With the right support, it is possible to heal from past experiences and move forward.

with Jemma Austin