Anna Gardner

I am a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist, with a Distinction in my Post-Graduate Diploma from the University of Roehampton. Having worked in different settings including charities like Cruse Bereavement Services, Change Grow Live and Chilterns Neuro Centre, the NHS, and for an online low-cost therapy service, I have a broad range of practical experience which is built on an excellent theoretical understanding of psychological modalities and presenting issues. I stay abreast of latest developments by continuously upskilling and learning. To that end, I am currently undertaking a Master of Science in Psychology of Mental Health & Well-being at the University of Wolverhampton. This is because my experience has shown that outstanding service occurs when clinical excellence intersects with client experience. My aim therefore is to provide every one of my clients with outstanding service by delivering clinical excellence in a warm, safe, non-judgmental, and positive environment. 

Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I was a senior executive, lawyer and philanthropist with 20+ years’ experience in the legal services industry and non-profit sector.

In 2021, I was  elected as Public Governor for Buckinghamshire at Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust and have recently been appointed Lead Governor for the Trust.

I integrate Person-Centred Approach with CBT and Psychodynamic Approach to help my clients understand and address their issues. However, psychotherapy is an art as well as a science. To be effective, it requires a relationship between client and practitioner founded on trust and mutual understanding. My goal is to build a warm, safe, non-judgemental, and positive relationship with my clients which is wholly centred on their needs. To that end, I offer a culturally sensitive environment with no-rush appointments at a time and location that's convenient for you.

(1) Cultural sensitivity:

All adults are welcomed regardless of background. Having lived and worked in many different countries, I am particularly sensitive to diversity in culture and self-identity, including with respect to race, gender, and sexuality.

(2) No-rush appointments:

I believe that the therapeutic hour is the client’s time to decompress, talk, cry, shout, or just think. It’s an opportunity to look at your emotional issues with the help of a trained specialist who will not judge you. Understanding what ails you is often the first step to overcoming it. I will always therefore work at your pace.

(3) Available where you are:

Therapy should be easily accessible. I offer appointments online, by telephone, by text and in person at your convenience. That means you can seek care at a time and location that's convenient to you. 

I usually offer a first 30 minute no-obligation session free-of-charge so that clients can experience my service before deciding whether to move forward or not.