I am a supportive Psychodynamic Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, and an Equine-facilitated Psychotherapist (EFP), which means therapy for humans with horses.
I work with adults at all stages of life, either short or long-term. I support people with a wide range of experiences including;
- anxiety and depression
- bereavement and grief
- low self-esteem
- stress
- trauma
- abuse
- infertility, childlessness
- ill health and life stage issues such as, the menopause
My aim is to provide a safe, confidential and compassionate space for you to talk openly about your concerns with someone who works without judgment and is down-to-earth.
The foundation of my approach is psychodynamic. This means we will explore how your early family relationships, childhood experiences, and difficult events have shaped who you are now, how you relate to others and the world around you. We will also consider feelings that might be outside of your immediate awareness such as unconscious fears, or buried needs and desires, which filter through in to your responses and patterns. We might also focus on bodily sensations and what they might be telling you. Exploring these avenues can help you to understand yourself better and take steps towards change.
Mediums used
Face to face at BTC, online (via Zoom), or with horses (near Lewes).
Why therapy with horses?
The benefits of the human animal bond has long been recognised and horses have a place in our history, mythology, and collective imagination. As prey animals horses are considered to have unique therapeutic benefits because they live in herds and are highly attuned to others and their environment for their survival.
EFP is an innovative approach to healing psychological distress, such as trauma, low self- esteem, anxiety, eating disorders, and the impact of cancer and other serious conditions. Therapy with horses can build on previous therapy, provide an alternative if you feel stuck or if you are interested in ecotherapy. No riding is involved. Working with me alongside horses allows us to reflect on how you respond to and affect the horses. This can lead to insight in to your emotions, how you feel about yourself, and what patterns and expectations you bring to relationships. Greater self-awareness is necessary for change. Being accepted by the herd can be a profoundly moving and healing experience.
I am guided by strong ethics of horse welfare in my work.
Qualifications
- PGDip Psychodynamic Psychotherapeutic Counselling
- Crossfield’s Institute Diploma in Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy, The LEAP Method
- CRUSE, Awareness in Bereavement Award
Summary Terms of Agreement
I outline my Terms of Agreement in advance for discussion in our first session. I aim to be flexible where possible so sessions can sometimes be rescheduled or moved online. However, I charge for missed sessions as the time is allocated for your exclusive use. I don’t charge if I am away / unavailable. Payment by bank transfer is due on the day of the session.