Vanessa Birley

My approach

 

I am an experienced psychotherapist and enjoy facilitating an exploration into the hidden and sometimes difficult aspects of the self. Working psychodynamically involves reflecting on the past, how it may influence the present and integrating these to live a more fulfilling life.  Psychodynamic psychotherapy can include exploring the unconscious, for example, through dreams. This encourages a deeper understanding of what causes problems in relating to the self and others. I work in central and SW London as well as offering online sessions.

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My qualifications and experience

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Having worked extensively as an art psychotherapist with both adults and children, I completed the psychodynamic psychotherapy qualification at Westminster Pastoral Foundation, one of the UK’s leading training and clinical organisations for psychotherapy validated by the University of Roehampton. I am a professional member of BPC, BACP and FPC and adhere to their code of ethics and working practice.

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I qualified with an MA in art psychotherapy from Goldsmiths, University of London in 2011 and am a full member of BAAT (British Association of Art Psychotherapists) and HCPC (Health & Care Professions Council). I have worked with issues relating to trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship and reproductive issues, sexuality, identity and health conditions. I also have experience working in peri- and postnatal mental health.

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My philosophy

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I provide a compassionate and open space, somewhere to be curious about your life
experiences. Whilst I will encourage you to seek your own self-understanding, therapy is a process to think together in perhaps what might feel to be unfamiliar, yet within a shared environment.  What it is that you are seeking from psychotherapy? Change may feel difficult but begins with taking a first step. I look forward to helping unveil inner experiences to unfold. It is never too late to begin.