Reasons People Seek Therapy
Trauma and post-traumatic stress
Traumatic experiences can leave people feeling unsafe, on edge or disconnected, sometimes with intrusive memories, flashbacks or nightmares. These are understandable responses to overwhelming experiences.
Where appropriate, trauma‑focused approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) are used to help traumatic memories become less distressing and disruptive in daily life.
Anxiety, depression and emotional overwhelm
Persistent worry, low mood, emotional numbness or a sense of being unable to cope can be deeply exhausting. Therapy supports understanding what maintains these difficulties and developing more effective ways of responding.
Obsessive-compulsive difficulties, phobias and eating-related concerns
Persistent worry, low mood, emotional numbness or a sense of being unable to cope can be deeply exhausting. Therapy supports understanding what maintains these difficulties and developing more effective ways of responding.
Self-worth, self-criticism and shame
Harsh self‑criticism or a persistent sense of not being “good enough” can have a significant impact on wellbeing and relationships. Therapy supports the development of a more compassionate and balanced relationship with oneself.
Relationship difficulties
Difficulties in close relationships — whether with partners, family members or others — are a common reason for seeking therapy. Work may focus on patterns of relating, communication, boundaries and attachment experiences.
Significant life events and transitions
Difficulties in close relationships — whether with partners, family members or others — are a common reason for seeking therapy. Work may focus on patterns of relating, communication, boundaries and attachment experiences.
Personal development
Therapy can also be used proactively — to deepen self‑understanding, strengthen relationships or support resilience and performance in work or leadership roles.
Make an appointment
I see clients face to face at my practice at Holmedale Health in St Leonards, Exeter. I also offer remote therapy sessions via Zoom.