Chiara di Rienzo is a therapist in Kingston

What attracted you to become a therapist?

I’ve always been drawn to why people do what they do. Even as a teenager, I was fascinated by how culture, story and the mind shape our relationships—with ourselves and with others. That thread has run through every part of my career.

Over two decades in leadership roles, and later as a leadership and career coach, I’ve had the privilege of working with people navigating change, growth and challenge. I’ve seen how powerful coaching can be in building clarity, resilience and momentum. And through that work, I became increasingly curious about what gets in the way—what keeps us stuck, even when we’re insightful, resourceful and motivated.

That curiosity led me to train as a therapist. My own experience of burnout also played a part—therapy helped me reconnect to myself and realign with what truly matters.

Now, working across both disciplines, I offer a range of ways to support meaningful growth—whether you're ready to move forward or looking to understand yourself more deeply.

Where did you train as a therapist?

I trained with CPCAB at Kingston College, completing my Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, and I’m now studying for my Level 5 in Psychotherapeutic Counselling. I'm a registered member of the BACP and work in line with their Ethical Framework.

Can you tell us about the type of therapy you practise?

I’m an integrative therapist, which means I draw from a range of approaches — including person-centred, psychodynamic, CBT and mindfulness-based models — to shape a way of working that fits each client. I also bring over 20 years’ experience as a leadership and career coach (ICF ACC-accredited) and, where appropriate, integrate coaching into therapy — especially for clients navigating work-related stress, identity questions or life transitions. My particular focus is on anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and relational challenges.

How does integrative therapy help with symptoms of anxiety overwhelm?

Integrative therapy adapts to what works best for you. We begin by settling the nervous system — through breath pacing, grounding and body awareness — so the internal alarm can soften. We then map what keeps anxiety going: worry loops, inner critic dynamics, avoidance, and the pressure to cope. Together we explore gentler, more workable alternatives using ACT/CBT tools, compassion-based work and relational depth. Over time, anxiety shifts from “danger” to “information,” and you begin to feel more in control of how you respond day-to-day.

What sort of people do you usually see?

I work with adults (18–60s) who are often navigating big questions: “Is this still working for me?” “Why am I feeling disconnected?” “How do I move forward?” Many are high-functioning professionals who appear together on the outside but feel anxious, stuck or depleted inside. I also support people exploring identity, grief, chronic illness, unsatisfying relationships and neurodiversity.

Have you noticed any recent mental health trends or wider changes in attitude?

Yes — more people are coming to therapy not just in crisis, but to reflect and grow. There’s more openness about emotional fatigue, boundaries, and the toll of constant productivity. Topics like perimenopause, neurodiversity and questions of meaning/purpose are becoming more visible, and I’m seeing more men seeking support too. There’s also growing awareness of how wider systems and cost-of-living pressures affect wellbeing.

What do you like about being a therapist?

Those quiet, powerful moments when something shifts — when someone sees themselves with more kindness, or begins to live in closer alignment with who they are. It's a privilege to hold space for that unfolding.

What is less pleasant?

Systemic barriers — particularly around access and affordability. And the admin side, which is necessary, but definitely not the most nourishing part of the work!

How long have you been with Welldoing and what do you think of us?

I recently joined Welldoing and appreciated the thoughtful design, the peer support network, and the curated feel of the platform. The weekly CPD and the emphasis on connection align with my values as a practitioner.

What books have been important to you in your professional and personal development? Do you recommend books to clients? 

Some books shaped me early on, while others have become more meaningful as my practice has deepened. Recently, Why Therapy Works by Louis Cozolino and Attachment in Psychotherapy by David Wallin have had a strong impact — both explore the relational and neurobiological roots of change in a way that resonates with my integrative stance. Irvin Yalom’s Love’s Executioner continues to stand out for its honesty and emotional depth. I’m currently reading Between Therapist and Client by Michael Kahn, which explores the therapeutic relationship in a beautifully clear voice.

For clients, it really depends on what they’re interested in or struggling with — some want something practical, others something more reflective. A few I’ve recommended recently include:

• The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion by Chris Germer – kind, practical and grounding
• Quiet the Mind by Matthew Johnstone – a visual, gentle introduction to mindfulness
• Addicted to Anxiety by Owen O’Kane – especially helpful for those caught in anxious cycles

Books can be powerful companions between sessions, but I always suggest them thoughtfully, in conversation with the person’s process.

What do you do for your own mental health?

Ongoing personal therapy and supervision, daily walks with my Vizsla Maple, time in nature. I try to be intentional about creating spaciousness and maintaining healthy boundaries.

You are a therapist in Kingston. What can you share about seeing clients in this area?

In my work as a psychotherapist in NHS primary care (GP practices), I often meet men referred later in their distress — frequently at or near burnout — and many people living with chronic illness or cancer-related anxiety.

In private practice, I see a wider mix: professionals and creatives navigating relationship difficulties, identity shifts and persistent anxiety. The area has a thoughtful, therapy-friendly culture. Clients often come seeking space to reflect, not just cope. With the pressures of commutes, caring roles and high expectations, therapy can offer a steady pause to realign.

I also offer walk-and-talk sessions in Richmond Park, which many find grounding and clarifying.

What’s your consultation room like?

Calm, light-filled and uncluttered, with soft textiles, plants, comfortable seating and neutral tones. Water and tissues to hand, and a quiet clock for gentle structure. I aim to create a space where people feel safe enough to show up fully.

For online work, I ensure good lighting, sound and a clean backdrop so the space still feels held and intentional. 

Walk-and-talk therapy in Richmond Park offers a more spacious, side-by-side rhythm. Moving through nature can ease nervous tension, reduce self-consciousness and help thoughts and feelings flow more freely.

What do you wish people knew about therapy?

That therapy isn’t about being “fixed.” It’s about creating space to be with yourself differently. You don’t need to be in crisis to begin. It’s a collaborative, evolving process that builds self-awareness, connection and self-trust.

What did you learn about yourself in therapy?

That presence matters more than perfection. That strength and softness can co-exist. And that healing often begins when we offer ourselves the same care and curiosity we extend to others.