Meet the Therapist: Rebecca Turner
Rebecca Turner is a therapist in North London and online
What attracted you to become a therapist?
I worked for the airline industry for many years and managed crew. We were often away from home for long periods and I was called upon to counsel staff. I realised that I really wanted to help people and listen to them. Training as a counsellor seemed the most natural next step for me.
Where did you train?
I trained at City Lit in London.
What type of therapy do you practise?
I’m an integrative therapist and I incorporate person-centred therapy, psychodynamic therapy and CBT therapy into my sessions.
Do you specialise in anything?
I have helped many clients suffering from anxiety and feelings of low self-esteem.
What sort of people do you usually see?
I see individuals and there is no limit as far as age range. I have one client at the moment who is 15-years-old, and another who is 75.
Have you noticed any broader mental health trends or challenges recently?
I think that since the pandemic, there has been a surge in people needing support with their mental health. The great thing is that there is so much more awareness nowadays and people are reaching out to get help.
What do you like about being a therapist?
I feel very privileged that I am able to experience someone’s inner world and be their support in their moving forward. It is a very unique and special job to have that hopefully helps make positive change. That’s why I love it.
What is less pleasant?
I can’t think of anything that is not pleasant. At the beginning we are building a relationship and that takes time, so sometimes it’s a while until we really get to the heart of things.
How long have you been with welldoing.org?
I have only just joined but I like the way they operate their booking system and it feels as though I’m part of a wider community.
Do you ever suggest apps or books to client?
Yes, I recommend the Headspace app as I’ve used it myself and find it very good.
What do you do for your own mental health?
I exercise regularly. I’m a musician so I find playing and writing to be very therapeutic.
What’s your consultation room like?
Peaceful, beautiful. It’s set in gorgeous gardens and the space is very relaxing for therapy.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
That there are no definitive answers, but therapy will always be a way of getting thoughts and feelings out, and therefore, in a way, letting them go by expressing ideas and discovering oneself.
What did you learn about yourself in therapy?
I have experienced many things in my life that left me with feelings of guilt and pain, but through therapy I realised that my journey has been a unique one. I have learned to love myself and accept myself as I am.
