Meet the Therapist: Gillian Jacobson
Jan 15, 2019
Gillian Jacobson
Jan 15, 2019
I have alway been a deep thinker, and it was during my adolescent years that I became fascinated with the topics of emotion and psychological disorders. It is at that time that realised I wanted to be a psychologist; I wasn't aware of the term psychotherapist at the time.
I completed a BA in Sociology and Psychology at University College Dublin, and a MSc in Integrative Psychotherapy and Counselling at the University of Derby. As part of my training I worked in a community and youth counselling service where I gained evaluable experience working with people dealing with depression, anxiety, substance misuse and addictions, work stress, relationship issues, sexual and domestic abuse, loss and grief, and trauma.
My approach to therapy is holistic as I look at all aspects of a person's life: physical, mental and spiritual, and ways to improve these areas to support my clients psychologically.
As an integrative psychotherapist, I have been trained to combine different types of therapies, depending on the client's needs and problems for which counselling has been sought.
Integrative psychotherapy allows for different aspects of issues to be examined, and the most suitable intervention can then be applied to problems clients are experiencing.
I see a range of clients, from working professionals, university students and graduates, to entrepreneurs. The overlying factor is that both the client and I feel that we can work together. Generally, I see clients who are ready and want to work towards change.
I love the deep and meaningful work, and supporting my clients to improve their emotional and psychological wellbeing.
I find exploring the mind-body connection and associated behaviours, and researching the latest developments on issues that my clients bring to therapy fascinating.
Engaging in therapy is an added expense to many whose budgets are already stretched. This often prevents people from either seeking therapy or deters clients from continuing with personal therapy. To make things a bit easier, I provide a sliding scale, depending on personal circumstances.
I joined welldoing.org in October last year, after reading many positive reviews. So far, I have had a very good experience and have found the support staff to be very helpful and accommodating. The website also provides a lot of insightful articles each week.
Yes, especially meditation apps, such as Calm and Insight Timer to help with a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, stress and depression. Books if it comes up in session.
Enough 'me time' is crucial. I ensure that my diet provides me with the right nutrition and check that I get some sort of daily activity. Together with meditation practice, these are all key.
I am a therapist in Ealing, West London. The premises is conveniently located and easily accessible by public transport, which is I have found to be a big factor for clients enquiring about and committing to therapy. As a result many of my clients are professionals working and or living in around West London. I have also recently started practising in Twickenham.
In Ealing, plush sofas, plants and an exposed brick wall create a rustic feel, yet at the same time gives off an atmosphere of warmth, comfort and calm. Clients often comment on how comfy the sofa is.
In Twickenham, simplicity and minimalism, wood floors and muted greys offer a sense of tranquility and a space to retreat.
That you don't need to be in crisis to seek help. To view it the same as physical exercise, but for your psychological health to support and strengthen your mental wellbeing.
I learnt how to manage my critical voice and my expectations of situations.
Gillian Jacobson