Dr Lydia Taiwo

I’m Dr Lydia, a survivor of abuse, a Christian Counsellor, Psychotherapist & an ACEs Specialist Consultant. With 35+ years’ experience, I support premarital clients, trauma survivors, and domestic abuse victims to heal, grow, and thrive. As a person of colour, I bring both lived and professional experience to my work, offering culturally sensitive and inclusive support to all clients. Unfortunately my expertise do not cover LGBT clients. I only work with heterosexual couples only as this is where my expertise lie. I specialize in the treatment of Adverse Childhood Experiences ACEs and trauma, including issues of abuse, bullying, domestic violence, along with divorce, self-esteem, anxiety, and stress. I am a therapist for trauma recovery, childhood abuse and emotional healing. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) refer to potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (ages 0-17). These experiences can have profound effects on a person's mental, emotional, and physical health throughout their adult life. Understanding and addressing ACEs is crucial for promoting healing, resilience, and overall well-being. Common Types of ACEs people suffer from, which I support include the following: 1. Abuse Physical Abuse Emotional Abuse: Actions or verbal statements that cause emotional harm or distress. Sexual Abuse: Any sexual activity with a child, including molestation, rape, and exploitation. 2. Neglect Physical Neglect: Failure to provide necessary food, shelter, or supervision. Emotional Neglect: Failure to meet a child’s emotional needs, including affection, attention, and support. 3. Household Challenges Substance Abuse: Living with a family member who has a substance use disorder. Mental Illness: Living with a family member who has mental health issues. Domestic Violence: Witnessing domestic violence or experiencing violence in the home. Incarceration of a Household Member: Having a family member who is incarcerated. Parental Separation or Divorce: Experiencing the separation or divorce of parents. Impact of ACEs on Mental Health 4. Psychological Effects Anxiety and Depression: Higher risk of developing anxiety and depression due to unresolved trauma. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Symptoms resulting from chronic or severe traumatic experiences. Low Self-Esteem: Feelings of worthlessness or inadequacy stemming from childhood experiences. 5. Behavioral Effects Risky Behaviors: Increased likelihood of engaging in substance abuse, self-harm, or other risky behaviors as coping mechanisms. Difficulty in Relationships: Challenges in forming and maintaining healthy relationships due to trust issues or fear of intimacy. 6. Physical Health Effects Chronic Health Conditions: Higher risk for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity due to prolonged stress and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Poor Health Habits: Increased likelihood of smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise. How I address the therapy for my clients: 1. Creating a Safe Space Empathy and Non-Judgment: Providing a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to share their experiences. Building Trust: Establishing a trusting relationship to encourage open and honest communication. 2. Using a Trauma-Informed Approach Understanding Trauma Responses: Recognizing the ways in which trauma impacts behavior and mental health. Empowering Clients: Helping clients regain control and empowerment in their lives. 3. Tailored Interventions Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addressing negative thought patterns and behaviors resulting from ACEs. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Teaching clients coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety. Inner Child Work – Helping clients reconnect with, nurture, and heal their inner child to address deep-seated emotional wounds and foster self-compassion. Mother Wound Healing – Supporting individuals in processing and resolving the emotional impact of difficult or damaging maternal relationships. Father Wound Healing – Assisting clients in understanding and repairing the effects of absent, neglectful, or harmful paternal relationships. 4. Supporting Resilience and Healing Strengths-Based Approach: Focusing on clients’ strengths and resources to foster resilience. Developing Coping Skills: Helping clients develop healthy coping mechanisms and problem-solving skills. Building a Support Network: Encouraging the development of a strong support system, including friends, family, and community resources. By providing a safe, supportive environment and utilizing trauma-informed approaches, my therapy can help individuals process their past experiences and build a healthier, more fulfilling future. My availability is flexible, and I am committed to finding a time that works best for you. Please feel free to get in touch so we can discuss and arrange a mutually suitable time for your initial session. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing and well-being.