Jennifer Hamilton is an online therapist based in Nottingham

What attracted you to become a therapist?

I have always been drawn to understanding people on a deeper level—why we think, feel, and behave the way we do.

Becoming a therapist felt like a natural path, one that allows me to support others through their challenges while continuing to grow and learn myself.

Where did you train? 

I trained with Chrysalis Courses, where I completed a Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapy and a Level 4 Diploma in Counselling. The training provided a solid foundation both theoretically and practically, and it has shaped how I work with clients today.

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

I practise integrative therapy, with core influences from psychodynamic and humanistic/person-centred approaches. This allows me to tailor sessions to the individual—exploring how past experiences shape current patterns while also focusing on empathy, acceptance, and personal growth.

How does integrative therapy help with symptoms of anxiety? 

With anxiety, integrative therapy helps us look at both the surface-level symptoms and the deeper emotional roots. We often explore early experiences that might be contributing to anxious thoughts or behaviours.

Alongside this, I support clients in developing practical strategies to manage overwhelm and feel more grounded day-to-day. It is about finding emotional insight and tools that work in real life.

What sort of people do you usually see?

During my placement, I worked in a private school setting, supporting children and teenagers. That experience gave me a solid foundation in working with young people around emotional regulation, self-esteem, and life transitions.

Through my training, I also gained experience working with adults and now see clients across both age groups in private practice.

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

Yes—there is a definite shift in how people view therapy. More individuals are seeking support before things reach a breaking point, and there's greater openness around mental health in general, especially among younger generations.

What do you like about being a therapist?

It is incredibly rewarding to walk alongside someone on their healing journey—to see their growth, clarity, and self-compassion unfold over time. Holding space for others in that way is a real privilege.

What is less pleasant?

There are times when the work is emotionally heavy, and it can be hard not to want to “fix” things straight away. But I’ve learned that being fully present and offering a consistent, supportive space is often more powerful than any quick solution.

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

I have been with Welldoing for about a month, so not long—but I am already finding it to be a great platform. The supportive resources, peer groups, and therapist community feel really encouraging, especially as someone building their private practice.

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

Books like The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, and The Road Less Travelled by M. Scott Peck have all had a significant impact on me.

I also find Attached by Amir Levine and Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach helpful for clients.

What you do for your own mental health? 

I have regular therapy myself, and I also take time to journal, get outside in nature, and connect with friends and loved ones. Keeping that balance helps me show up more fully for my clients.

You are a therapist in Nottinghamshire, working online. What can you share with us about seeing clients in this area?

I am based in Nottingham, and I work with a wide mix of clients, from children and teens to adults navigating anxiety, low self-esteem, and life changes. It is a vibrant and diverse area, and I really enjoy the richness that brings to work.

What’s your consultation room like?

At the moment, I do not have an in-person therapy room, but that is in the works. I am currently looking into renting a space locally. In the meantime, I offer sessions online via Zoom, which gives clients flexibility and comfort while I get my room set up.

What do you wish people knew about therapy?

That therapy isn’t just for when things are going wrong. It can be a powerful space for self-awareness, growth, and building a deeper relationship with yourself—even when life seems “fine” on the surface.

What did you learn about yourself in therapy?

That vulnerability isn’t something to be feared—it’s often where the most meaningful change begins. Therapy helped me become more self-aware, more grounded, and more compassionate toward myself and others