Sara Cookland

I am working online, and currently have availability on Tuesdays. 

Hi, I'm Sara, a therapist based in Leeds. I am currently accepting clients for online work. 

I have a BSC (Hons) Counselling and Therapeutic Studies and a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I work to the BACP’s ethical framework, which means I undertake regular supervision and commit to engaging in ongoing training and development.

I have worked as a therapist in a number of organisations, including Universities, Bereavement Services, Sexual violence and mental health organisations. I have worked with a range of presentations, which include, but are not limited to; anxiety, OCD, depression, gender, sexuality, discrimination, bereavement, divorce, health conditions and relationship difficulties.

How I work

I am a relational therapist and I work in an integrative way. This means that I use a range of therapeutic theories and models with each client, depending on their unique needs. Working relationally means I am interested in how we relate to the people in our lives and how they relate to us. It may be useful for us to explore past relationships and how they are impacting you today. As a therapist I can work with you to find meaning and make sense of your experiences.

I will have no expectations of you, the space will be dedicated to you, each week, to focus on what feels right. We may initially set some hopes for therapy, but this can evolve over time. 

Sexual Violence and Discrimination

I am passionate about supporting people who have experienced sexual violence or discrimination of any kind. I use principles of trust, respect and feminism within my work to create an environment that hopes to empower clients.

I worked as a helpline volunteer, taking calls from women and girls who have experienced rape or sexual violence. I have also worked as a volunteer counsellor in a rape crisis organisation, delivering long term trauma informed therapy to victim-survivors. 

Disability and Neurodiversity

I am keenly committed to upholding an anti-ableist approach in my therapy. This commitment is informed by my work within the disability and neurodiversity landscape. I have also facilitated social groups for autistic University students, and worked with large numbers of clients who are curious about exploring neurodiversity in adulthood.

I have received training from The ADHD Foundation, the National Association of Disability Practitioners and The National Autistic Society. 

I am deeply interested in creating an inclusive environment for clients and I aim to do this by working with each client on an individual basis, exploring what their needs are in the therapeutic space, and understanding how we can adapt our sessions.

LGBTQ+

My practice is queer and trans welcoming. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ people and have undertaken a number of training opportunities to extend my knowledge in this area. I am dedicated to working with clients from diverse backgrounds, relationships and those questioning their identity. 

I have experience working with both short term and long term clients, and in our first session we will discuss what might feel right for you at the moment. I work flexibly and this can evolve throughout our time together. In our first session we will discuss any goals or hopes for therapy, and how many sessions you may need. 

I appreciate choosing the right therapist can feel overwhelming, I have been there myself. If you would like to explore this further, please do get in touch for a free 30 minute conversation.