I am a Psycho-sexual and Couple's Therapist for Individuals and Couples (including non intimate couples such as siblings, colleagues, friends or with parent/s). Please visit - www.rimahawkins.com

I am a British Indian Psychotherapist, specialising in Sex and Relationship therapy. I trained in London in the late nineties. My interest is in intercultural relationships/marriages/civil partnerships and the dynamics of such relationship which impact on the entire family system, including children. I see transgender clients and have had clients from 'coming out' through to going for surgery and post surgery support.

My style is integrative-humanistic which means the therapist doesn't interpret the client's content but the client, with the help of the therapist, makes meaning of their issues, relevant to them. The therapist is the facilitator through out this journey of exploration and revelations! I am also trained in EMDR and integrate it with sexual trauma therapy.

I work differently with couples. I guide couples through their issues and help them understand the issues through explaining the relationship dynamics/stages, which the couple may not have an awareness of. I also work with a co therapist. Sometimes, couples need 1:1 work before they can begin to work as a couple. My colleagues and I have worked together in this model of four (2 therapist & the couple), which works well when there is a crisis within the relationship.

I have more than 20 years experience in the NHS including GPs and have also worked privately. I am a BUPA Provider. My area of NHS work has mainly been in sexual health (GUM Clinics) and have also piloted and developed the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) concept in the UK. In London, I developed the 3 Haven Centres for victims of sexual violence. I became a special Metropolitan Police Officer and received a commendation from the Assistant Commissioner of the London Metropolitan Police for this work.

My first appointment consists mainly of exploration from both sides as to how the relationship may work, to understand briefly the issues, to explain my way of working and explaining confidentiality. It is imperative that both sides feel comfortable before progressing further. I sometimes, will give details of other organisations and specialist colleagues, should that be beneficial to the client.

I am a Relate therapist for SW London and abide by the ethical framework of COSRT and BACP.