Meet the Therapist: Elanor Travers
Elanor Travers is a therapist in London and online
What attracted you to become a therapist?
Growing up I was surrounded by people who I saw suffering with their mental health. It was still a bit of a stigma to reach out and get help. I wanted to be a part of the movement that normalises reaching out and getting help. I believe that mental health and physical health go hand-in-hand, and both should be a priority.
Where did you train?
I first dipped my toe into psychology in Maynooth University, completing a diploma there. This was followed by a degree at the University of East London in counselling and psychotherapy.
Can you tell us about the type of therapy you practise?
I trained as an integrative therapist, this essentially means that I use a number of different approaches when working with clients. I don’t believe one size fits all, and people may need different approaches at different stages in the therapeutic process.
I incorporate cognitive, body and emotional work into my practice as a way to regulate my clients. In particular I work a lot around women's health such as menopause, birth trauma, and hormonal difficulties. I also work with trauma, anxiety and depression.
How does integrative help with symptoms of trauma?
When working with trauma it is important to incorporate mind, body, and practical strategies. Working from an integrative approach allows me to draw upon concepts from different approaches, this enables a tailor made approach that works for the client.
What sort of people do you usually see?
The majority of people I see are women, however I have worked with a diverse range of ages and people.
Have you noticed any recent mental health trends or wider changes in attitude?
I have noticed that the younger generation are much more aware of mental health and seem to be very articulate in how they talk about it. On the flip side of this I have also noticed an increase in people diagnosing themselves with disorders.
What do you like about being a therapist?
I love people, I am endlessly fascinated by neuroscience and the impact of making small changes to a clients outlook and way of living. It is such a privilege to sit with another human and listen to the story of their life. To be able to walk alongside anyone on that journey and help provide clarity in any way is amazing.
What is less pleasant?
Therapy can be hard work; witnessing a client work through a particularly hard situation can stay with you. However, it's an essential part of the therapeutic journey.
How long have you been with Welldoing and what you think of us?
I have just recently started with Welldoing. I like the ease at which clients can book through the website.
Do you ever suggest books or apps to clients?
I am a big fan of the holistic psychologist Dr Nicole Le Pera. She has a book and Instagram page which I find is very accessible for clients.
What do you do for your own mental health?
Besides seeing my own therapist on a regular basis, I practice a lot of body work. This can involve breathwork, shaking, dance and singing.
I also do a lot of CPD work which also contributes to a better understanding of myself.
What’s your consultation room like?
I work in a shared practice with other therapists, it's cosy and private. I also work online.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
Therapy can change your life, it gives you choices that you might not even be aware of.
What did you learn about yourself in therapy?
That I live my life according to my values and not always live to those of others.
