Martin Leach

I am a trauma, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems therapist, I adapt my approach to each individual and it is always underpinned by an understanding of the importance of increasing safety, connection and awareness of present reality. For some people it's important to take things really slowly and gently, whereas others might feel more inclined to approach processing specific traumatic events more quickly. Many people are surprised (and relieved) to discover that trauma therapy doesn't necessarily depend on them retelling their story in great detail. There are other ways that we can work, the priority being to help people (and their nervous systems) adapt to the reality that the trauma is over and in the past, make sense of their experience, and discover how life can get easier and have the potential to be enjoyable. If people do choose to work through individual events, then this is approached in a safe way designed to make it manageable and potentially empowering, rather than overwhelming.

At times, you might need someone to listen and just let you tell your story. At other times, you might need someone to be more directive and give you practical skills to help you navigate life and work with your emotions and thoughts. At another point, you might need someone to challenge your own view of life and help you find a better way of being and existing in the world.

Each client is unique, I adapt therapy to the clients and not the client to the therapy. I integrate Buddhist philosophy and practice with the clinical traditions of modern Western psychology supported by cutting edge neuroscience, rooted in the belief that all people are granted the internal wisdom necessary to heal from pain.

Please see my website for more information.

I am based in Banbury, North Oxfordshire.

I initially trained a a humanistic-integrative therapist. I have a Diploma in Trauma Therapy, a Certificate in Somatic Trauma Therapy and qualifications in Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems therapy. I am a registered EMDR Therapist and have taken further training in both the Flash and Advanced Flash techniques. 

My background is in healthcare, initially as a residential social worker and then as a nurse. In addition to being a qualified therapist, I worked as a registered mental health nurse and I have over 40 years experience in mental health work in various settings including the NHS, private healthcare providers and prisons covering a wide range of issues. More recently I have developed and interest and expertise in working with neurodivergent clients particularly at the interface of trauma and autism and/or ADHD.

I offer individual, face-to-face sessions in the Oxfordshire area. I have experience with a broad range of clients and I am happy to work with any issue you may want to bring to therapy. I have a particular interest and specialist training in:

trauma

working with survivors of physical and/or sexual and/or emotional abuse

self-harm and suicidal thoughts

PTSD and Complex-PTSD

shame and self-criticism

personality disorder

clients with complex needs

neurodivergent clients

Making the decision to begin therapy is a positive step towards positive mental health and well-being. Sessions last for 50 minutes, and take place in a quiet room with just two of us present. At your appointment, you'll be encouraged to talk about your feelings and emotions but only as much and as far as you feel comfortable, without any judgment or criticism. I will ask you some questions that will help me gain a deeper understanding of the issues important to you. This can include:

Your relationships

Your childhood

Your emotions

Your thoughts

Your behaviour

Situations or events you find difficult

What has brought you to therapy at this specific moment in your life.

Your first session will be about what you are looking for in therapy, what you would like to achieve and to get a sense of whether we could work together to meet your goals, I will explain how I work and you will have the opportunity to ask questions. You will be in control and you only have to say and disclose whatever you are comfortable with, nothing more.