Theresa Cookson

I’m a psychodynamic counsellor and psychotherapist with over twelve years’ experience across the NHS and private practice. Originally trained as a mental health nurse, I bring a grounded, steady presence to the work and a depth of experience in supporting people through emotional distress, complexity, and transition. The line you may have seen above from Goethe captures something central to how I work: the belief in a person’s capacity to grow when met with understanding, curiosity, and depth. It’s completely natural to feel unsure, nervous, or hesitant when starting therapy — and just turning up is already a meaningful first step. In our first session, we’ll begin wherever you are. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out; it’s simply a space to explore what brings you here and to sense whether the work — and the theraputic relationship — feels right for you. My approach is warm, relational, and rooted in psychodynamic thinking. Together we explore what lies beneath the surface: the feelings, patterns, and relational dynamics shaping how you live and relate today. At times, familiar themes or early experiences may emerge — even between us in the room. If we decide to continue, we’ll meet weekly at an agreed time and day. This consistent frame creates the safety and structure needed for deeper work to unfold. Some sessions may feel challenging as we touch into painful or unconscious material; this is a natural and meaningful part of the process. My role is to stay alongside you, helping to hold what feels difficult and thinking with you about what emerges, both in words and beneath them. Above all, our work happens within a theraputic relationship that is safe, respectful, and containing — a space where all parts of you are welcome.