Denise Elliott

I have availability:

Monday afternoons

Wednesday mornings and aftenoons

Hello, I'm Denise (she/her), a  BACP-accredited psychotherapist, counsellor, and EMDR therapist. I have 12 years’ experience of clinical practice and over 20 in supporting individuals facing challenges across different communities and stages of life. My approach is relational, meaning the core of my practice rests on the belief in developing a strong, nurturing and collaborative relationship with clients. I aim to create an environment where you will feel safe enough to be able to explore your emotions and experiences without judgment, and where you feel understood and accepted.

I integrate traditional talk therapies and psychological theories alongside body-based/somatic and creative approaches, creating a holistic, personalized experience for each person I work with. I draw on various therapeutic modalities, as I believe that each can offer a distinctive lens through which we can deepen our own unique self-awareness and understanding. I am particularly interested in the interplay between our minds and bodies and the impact our experiences (good and bad) have on both. Being mindful of this interconnection will be part of our work together so we can ensure that the mind, body and nervous system are all fully engaged in the therapeutic process.

For many the process can be enhanced using EMDR, a psychotherapy that helps people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress resulting from disturbing  life experiences. Originally developed for treating trauma (and recommended by WHO and NICE), it’s increasingly used to help with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression and relationship issues. https://emdr-europe.org/about/what-is-emdr/.

I am currently also employed as a school counsellor in a secondary school. I only work with those over the age of 18 in private practice however..

Throughout our time together I will deeply listen and welcome all parts of you with curiosity and compassion. It’s important that we work in a manner and at a pace that is comfortable for you, giving you choice and control. I will therefore check in with you often, and we will regularly review our progress.

My ultimate goal is for you to gain increased awareness and find meaning in your experiences. My hope is that this process gives you greater choice and control in how you respond to difficulties, allowing you to feel more balanced, and more connected to yourself and those around you.

Professional Qualifications

Master’s degree in Psychological Counselling

Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology

Certificate in Counselling Children (using play and creative methods)

EMDR Levels 1, 2, 3 & 4

BA Arts & Social Studies

Accredited with BACP and registered with EMDR UK

I believe in a commitment to ethical practice and learning and so regularly participate in continual professional development. I also attend monthly individual and peer supervision to support my practice. 

Experience

As well as my private practice, I have clinical experience in primary and secondary schools, a university counselling and psychotherapy research clinic and in the voluntary sector.

I have worked in a variety of places and spaces, allowing me the privilege of connecting with a diverse range of people and gaining insight into the broader systems that impact us. 

Before becoming a therapist, I’ve held various helping roles within the voluntary sector. For 9 years I was Children’s Practitioner for a specialized fostering service, supporting chidren and young people with trauma and attachment difficulties, and their foster carers. I’ve also worked in different sexual health and relationship projects, a project for people affected by HIV/AIDS, a drug prevention project and with young refugees and asylum seekers. Additionally, I’ve worked in different arts and music venues and festivals.

If you think I might be someone you can work with, please get in touch. I offer a free 30- minute introductory phone call to allow us to connect, find out if we are the right match, and explore how we may work together. This is also a chance for you to ask any questions you may have.