Ruth Culhane

I am specifically trained couple’s counsellor who helps couples to identify the negative cycles they are trapped in and provide them which effective and powerful ways to communicate their needs and desires without conflict.

I do this by supporting each partner’s differentiation in helping them to see their differences which, instead of being problems, can be opportunities to develop themselves and bring vitality and intimacy into their relationship.

Some of the issues that I regularly work with are intimacy, infidelity, anger, resentment, parent-in-law issues, addiction and reactivity and safe negotiation of separation

Helping each partner to express what is important to them and to understand and tolerate their partner’s perspective is important to me.

My approach is holistic, integrative and relational which means that I treat everyone as a unique individual and can tailor my working style to suit their particular needs. Building a strong effective relationship where you are both seen and heard is important to me.

You should know that we will not be focusing and criticising each other's flaws but rather exploring the cycle you are caught in and how each person copes with difficulties. A large part of the work that I do is to support you in developing as an individual as well as form a healthy and resilient relationship

The first session will be about you, your history and what you wish to achieve from therapy.  I am likely to ask many questions about how you met, when you first started to feel disillusioned and if you are able to ask for support from each other, and what kind of support you desire.  I am also likely to be curious about  how you compromise with each other and how any disagreements end.

I  have specialist training in working  with couples and individuals to improve and strengthen their relationships and/or sexual difficulties and functioning.  I treat everyone as a unique individual and offer a non-judgemental space to talk and work through any issues you may bring at your own pace and providing a therapy tailored to your specific needs and goals.

As a sex therapist, I understand that sexual issues are often the result of both physical and emotional factors which can be the cause of intense shame, low self esteem and relationship problems. I help people with  loss of desire and libido, difficulty with orgasm and ejaculation, sexual phobias, low self esteem and body image issues as well as specific life stage and age related issues.  I also work with clients who are suffering from sexual or porn addiction.

As a relationship counsellor, I love to help people improve  their relationships and navigate though issues such as reactivity, communication issues, infidelity, belief systems, health and intimacy issues and other relationship challenges  and work towards a dialogue where both people feel seen and heard. 

I  also have experience of working with a wide range of issues such as depression, bereavement, anxiety, self esteem and childhood trauma.

My approach is holistic,  integrative and relational. It is important to me that you feel accepted and heard. I will help you identify what you do well already, what you want to change and help you move forward towards your goals.

Sessions currently take place via Zoom or other online methods in line with current Government guidance.  I do however offer some limited availability for face to face session.

My approach is holistic, integrative and relational.

I am a member of BACP and COSRT

Sessions cost £60 per 50  minute session for individuals and £80 per session for couples - although I often suggest a 90 minute session for couples which costs £120

The first session is dedicated to exploring the issues which you come to therapy with and what you hope to achieve. 

It is likely that there will be a detailed history taking and some exploratory questions aimed at establishing how best to approach the work.  It is also your opportunity to ask me questions about my approach and experience.  

My aim is for the first session and all of the others to be positive, collaborative and affirming.