Catherine Allen

Welcome Finding a therapist can feel daunting - you've decided that you'd like to talk to someone, but who to choose-  I hope learning a little more about how I work will help you decide whether I might be the right fit for you. I'm a psychotherapist and counsellor who has worked in both the NHS and private practice with a wide variety of clients.   I am a member of the BACP and abide by their Codes of Ethics. I offer both brief and long-term therapy, depending on what you would like to explore.   I am experienced working with many different issues, including:  Depression Anxiety Stress Difficulties arising in forming relationships and intimacy The effects of childhood sexual, physical and emotional abuse Abusive adult relationships Absent parents during childhood   I have also worked with people in transition, which may include: becoming a parent involuntary childlessness adjusting to an empty nest  divorce and separation retirement and redundancy   My Approach I describe my way of working as ‘integrative’ – which simply means that you aren’t expected to fit into any particular theoretical category.  It’s grounded in acknowledging the importance of our earliest relationships and exploring whether ideas about ourselves and the world, carried forward into adult life, are still appropriate.  We can focus on a current dilemma and work towards specific goals or explore past experiences in more depth – helping you to gain understanding and insight into your individual experience. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore your potential for flexibility and change, where you can begin to feel able to make choices about the future.  If you have any questions or would like to arrange an initial 'no commitment' appointment, please contact me by email or phone.