Meet the Therapist: Rita Edah

Feb 14, 2020

meetthetherapist , video

Rita Edah is a therapist in Ilford; she also offers online therapy

What attracted you to become a therapist?

I’ve always loved helping people – be it to gain new perspectives, see new opportunities, overcome barriers and obstacles, gain new skills or find new opportunities, one way or another, whether formally or otherwise, I’ve tended to support people and facilitate their growth.

A point came in my life when I stopped to take stock and asked myself, “what do I really want to do when I grow up?” The soul searching that happened as a result of my attempts to answer that question is what led me to my present career as a counsellor/psychotherapist/coach.

Where did you train?

My Diploma in Personal Performance Coaching was from the Coaching Academy, London while my Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy was from the University of East London.

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

My training specialism is integrative. This means I can work flexibly, drawing on different approaches according to clients’ preferences. In sessions, my clients feel seen and heard because collaboratively we work in ways that best suit them.

How does your practice of integrative counselling and psychotherapy help with symptoms of anxiety and depression?

I work relationally, offering my clients active listening with the objectives of helping you see your situation more clearly along with whatever alternative perspectives might be possible and helping you develop a healthier relationship with your anxiety and/or depression, indeed with all of your emotions and ultimately with all parts yourself. This process helps you take responsibility for what is within your control in your own life as well as learning to recognise what is outside your control. All of this will help you get unstuck, empower you and contribute to your growth and personal development.

What sort of people do you usually see?

I work with individuals from ages 16 to 99+, as well as couples and families, presenting with a range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and suicidal ideation. Others have had to deal with abusive relationships, family breakdown and a crisis of identity.

What do you like about being a therapist?

It’s such a privilege to be trusted with clients’ vulnerabilities and to bear witness to their suffering. It’s such a joy to see a client’s eyes light up with a new insight… to hear them heave a sigh of relief… to witness their healing and growth…

What is less pleasant?

I find it pretty lonely sometimes not working in a team in the traditional sense of the word. I mitigate this by actively engaging in diverse networking activities.

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

I’ve been with welldoing.org since July 2018 and I’m a member of the therapist community of Facebook. What I like about it is how proactive it is in raising awareness about mental health issues.

Do you ever suggest books or apps to clients?

I have done, when it’s felt right.

What you do for your own mental health?

Taking regular breaks away and hanging out in nature.

Going to see plays, musicals as well as museums and art.

Engaging in varied networking activities and meeting up with family, friends and professional colleagues.

You are a therapist in Newbury Park, Ilford, IG2. What can you share with us about seeing clients in this area?

We’re all typically apathetic to the Central Line!!!

What’s your consultation room like?

I work out of my conservatory that looks out into my back garden. My clients have described it as welcoming, calm and peaceful.

What do you wish people knew about therapy?

I would like people to know that there is no shame in therapy, that it is not a weakness to reach out for help in that way, rather it is a sign of strength to recognise what you need and to reach out for it. Also, engaging in therapy doesn’t always mean that one is in crisis. By engaging in therapy, many have prevented a crisis!