Is Lochhead

Currently accepting new clients

I am an integrative therapist. I believe therapy is not 'one size fits all' but about finding out who you are, understanding and working to your specific needs. 

At heart, my work is based on an authentic therapeutic relationship. It is built on empathy, respect, trust, and positivity. With this as our foundation we can create a space to explore whatever challenges you may be experiencing with a feeling of safety, and at your own pace. This is your therapy. You are the guide. 

Much of my work will draw on lessons from Psychodynamics, Gestalt, Attachment Theory, Transactional Analysis, Narrative Therapy and Existentialism. But as a trained massage therapist I also work with somatics, and value the pragmatism of CBT for behavioural awareness.  

I also practice walking therapy. Each session is pre-planned to your specification and ability and takes place in a safe environment. Often the choice of walk is yours. As it is in the therapy room - you lead me. 

I provide 50 minute sessions of face-to-face or online. I work with email and text. Walking therapy timings begin with the first step.

My therapeutic style is compassionate and empathetic. But that doesn't mean I spend 50 minutes tilting my head on one side going 'mmmm'. 

I will look you in the eye and listen, one adult to another. I will seek to understand your outlooks, your experiences, your aspirations and beliefs. I will treat your goals as importantly as you do. I will strive to create an environment of trust, safety, and understanding. I hope we can share humour. For me, laughter in the therapy room is not tabu. I encourage it.

In this environment we can feel safe to explore pain and find joy. We can challenge one another. We can seek out new perspectives, new insights into the narrative of life, purpose, and ways forward. We can even disagree. What matters is our shared direction, and the unity of our goals. 

As a qualified massage therapist I believe in mind/body work and  the importance of somatic awareness to mental health. Repressive coping puts enormous strain on the body. Together we can learn to interpret the messages your body is sending and find tools to heal.

Therapy can be hard. It is work. It takes commitment and absorbs time and energy. But I believe it is a profound experience: fascinating, painful, enlightening, powerful, heartbreaking, joyous ... and even, sometimes, hilarious. I hope we can experience this together.  

Our first session is a free mutual assessment to ascertain whether you feel comfortable working with me, and vice versa. We will discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your expectations and your hopes for a positive outcome.  You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire. Boundaries and contract will be outlined. If you choose to work with me, we will agree on a schedule of sessions. If you believe you would be better served elsewhere there will be no charge and no further obligations.