Jacqueline Ullman is a therapist in NW11

What attracted you to become a therapist?

I had an interest in psychology and counselling since i was a teenager! Over 50 years ago. The mind and the psyche have always fascinated me.

Where did you train?

Both in France and the UK. In London, at CSCP and Birkbeck College, and continued training over many years, courses at the Tavistock, Mindfulness training etc.

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

I start with person-centred therapy. I think it is a warm, non-intrusive approach, well suited for clients who are in pain. I have multidisciplinary training, therefore I will introduce different techniques as we go along. As I have superb supervision, I discuss at length what may suit my clients best.

What sort of people do you usually see?

I only see adults. Any age, some are at work, some retired, some out of work I offer reduced fee for those who need counselling and cannot really afford it I see people of different ethnic groups.

I see many individuals, who are often in crisis, in pain and would like to find some equilibrium.

Many are patients with life-threatening diseases, who want to come to terms with their new life, with their new way of being.

I also see couples, some of them in crisis, and some who want to avoid crisis and come in hope. I work with bereaved clients too, helping them to find a new meaning to their lives.

What do you like about being a therapist?

When a client leaves the counselling room with a feeling of clarity, or some peace, I feel good!

What is less pleasant?

When i feel i don't know where i am going with the client. Is it their sense of loss or mine?

How long you've been with welldoing.org and what you think of us?

It has only been a few months, so a little early to have an opinion.

What you do for your own mental health?

I walk, especially in parks or forests. I listen to music, I am a classical music amateur, so BBC Radio 3 or concerts are a personal joy.

You are a therapist in North West London. What can you tell us about the areas you practise in?

It is multi ethnic, and multicultural.

What's your consultation room like?

It is a medium sized room, very quiet, and homely. No "office"! It is bright and sunny.

What do you wish people knew about therapy?

I wish people knew that therapy is work for them as well as the therapist

What did you learn about yourself in therapy?

That I am a very good listener - and can empathise well. I also learnt that i can be impatient, and have worked really hard to improve this.