Claudia Behnke is a psychotherapist in North London and online



What attracted you to become a therapist?

I've always been intrigued by mental health, engaging in nightlong conversations about neuroscience and human behaviour with my best friend during our teenage years. Admittedly, it's an unconventional interest for a teenager, but my fascination with understanding human behaviour and motivations runs deep. 

Moving to London to study psychology was a pivotal moment for me. Despite an extended detour into the fashion industry, I found my way back to my curiosity about the human mind and thus psychotherapy when a colleague introduced me to a friend teaching at the Institute of Psychosynthesis. I attended the opening day, felt an undeniable sense of alignment, and let my intuition lead the way from there. And here I am, a story of following one's gut to a fulfilling career!


Where did you train? 

I completed my psychotherapy diploma at the Institute of Psychosynthesis, where I also pursued my Master's degree. The MA program was accredited by Middlesex University, ensuring a recognised academic framework.


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

Psychosynthesis is a depth psychology. It's a journey to the very root of issues, which means the timeframe for healing is variable. It's beneficial for clients to come with an open mind and patience, as the process is profound and can take time.

From the moment I stepped into the Institute, I didn't feel the need to explore other modalities. Psychosynthesis resonated with me on a deep level; it felt like returning home, or like uncovering a calling that had always been mine. What I truly appreciate is how this approach holds space for a client's greatest potential, even when we're in the thick of their challenges. 

The integration of eastern philosophies, such as the Chakra system, and the use of mindfulness and visualisation techniques enrich the therapeutic experience, offering a holistic path to healing.


How does psychosynthesis therapy help?

Psychosynthesis offers a helpful approach to managing symptoms of conditions like anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and ADHD. It does so through the concept of subpersonalities, which are essentially the varied parts of our psyche. 

The therapy enables individuals to orchestrate these parts harmoniously, rather than being unconsciously driven by them due to past experiences. It's about becoming the conductor of your inner world, so to speak. 

This perspective allows clients to engage with their symptoms in a way that acknowledges their complexity and aims for integration rather than suppression. 


What sort of people do you usually see? 

My practice welcomes individuals of all ages but the majority of people in my practice are in their 20s and 30s navigating existential crises and searching for deeper meaning in their lives. 

I often address relationship challenges, whether within family dynamics or between romantic partners, and also guide couples through their interpersonal difficulties.


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

I believe there is a significant shift in societal attitudes, particularly among the younger generations, who display a growing curiosity about gender and sexuality and a desire to explore these aspects of themselves more freely. They face choices around traditional life milestones—marriage, home ownership, parenthood—that their parents and grandparents may not have considered as optional. This newfound freedom is exhilarating yet can also be a source of confusion and numerous questions. It has sparked a deeper quest for personal meaning, as they contemplate how to shape a fulfilling and significant life outside the boundaries of conventional norms.


What do you like about being a therapist?

What I cherish most about being a therapist is the deep connection I form with people. There's a profound sense of honour in being invited into someone's personal journey, each marked by its unique narrative and challenges. The realisation that I've positively impacted someone's life is both humbling and immensely gratifying. It's not just about the changes I witness in my clients, but also about the growth I experience alongside them.


What is less pleasant?

The less pleasant aspect of being a therapist is navigating the endings. They can be quite poignant, especially if not handled with care. This is why I place great emphasis on discussing the closure process at the start of our work together. It's essential to prepare and ensure that when the time comes to part ways, it's done in a way that feels respectful for both parties.


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

I have been with Welldoing for about three years. Welldoing stands out to me as a one-stop resource for therapists, offering a directory, continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities, and a supportive community. 

The team behind Welldoing is attentive and encouraging, which I find invaluable. I also really like the platform's dedication to sharing knowledge through its informative articles and newsletters. These often include insightful psychotherapeutic analyses of current events, making it not just a tool for finding clients or professional growth, but also a source of ongoing education and engagement with the broader mental health discourse.


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

Yes, too many to mention but here is a selection of my favourites:


For those who find these titles resonating, I might also recommend The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, which is a seminal work on understanding and treating traumatic stress, and The Gift of Therapy by Irvin D. Yalom, which provides an insightful look into the heart and soul of therapy.


What you do for your own mental health? 

Long walks in nature with my pup and prioritising regular quality time with friends. I also love traveling where I can immerse myself in a different culture and completely “switch off”. 

Going to art exhibitions and listening to classical or ambient electro music are nourishment for my soul. 

I also maintain my wellbeing through my own therapy and supervision sessions, along with CPD events that provide a valuable opportunity for meaningful connection with my peers.


You are a therapist in North London. What can you share with us about seeing clients in this area?

My practice is informed by the cultural diversity of the area and also by engaging with clients from the creative industries as well as education. I work with a variety of artists, actors, musicians and professionals from theatre, fashion, and various media industries. Their unique perspectives bring a rich depth to the therapeutic process.


What’s your consultation room like?

My consultation room is designed to be a welcoming space. It’s filled with natural light and is furnished with lush plants and a selection of books. It has a big comfy sofa with lots of cushions and soft blankets and not to forget my two voluptuous female sculptures – Vera and Vigan who are a symbol for the celebration of the female body.


What do you wish people knew about therapy?

I wish more people understood that therapy is a reciprocal relationship. Therapists genuinely care about their clients beyond the professional commitment. It's also vital for clients to know they can and should be open about their feelings towards their therapist and the therapy process itself. This transparency is crucial for effective therapy.


What did you learn about yourself in therapy?

Working with a diverse clientele offers me a window into a vast array of life experiences, perspectives, and challenges, enriching my understanding of the complexity of human behaviour and mental health. This is enabling me to better appreciate and respond to how cultural, social, and economic backgrounds shape an individual's mental health journey and treatment needs.

Each therapeutic encounter teaches me the value of flexibility and adaptability. Recognising that each client is unique, I continually refine my approaches and techniques to align with their specific therapeutic goals, ensuring personalised care.

And, most importantly, witnessing the resilience of clients as they navigate and surmount adversity is not only humbling but also profoundly inspiring. It reinforces my commitment to this work and to supporting each individual's path to healing and growth.

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Contact Claudia here

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