Why Therapy?
My special interest area within therapy is the journey in to parenthood. Pregnancy and becoming a parent is often described as one of life's happiest times - but for many mums, dads and couples, it can also bring unexpected challenges. Anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship changes, sleep deprivation and adjusting to your new roles can leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected or simply not yourself.
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You might benefit from support if you recognise any of the following:
- Feeling guilty, like you're not doing enough or getting it wrong
- Difficulty bonding with your baby or feeling emotionally distant
- Loss of confidence in yourself as a parent
- Feeling unlike yourself or or finding it hard to enjoy this stage of life
- Relationship tension, poor communication, or feeling less connected to your partner
- Feeling anxious, worried or on edge most days
- Low mood, tearfulness or feeling emotionally flat
- Constant overwhelm or struggling to cope with day to day tasks
- Irritability, frustration or snapping more easily than usual
- Trouble sleeping, even when you have the chance to rest
- Racing thoughts, panic or intrusive thoughts
- Withdrawing from others or losing interest in things you usually enjoy
Reaching out for support isn't a sign of weakness - it'ds an investment in your wellbeing, your relationship and your growing family. Whether you're expecting a baby, adjusting to life with a newborn, or navigating the first years of parenthood, therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space to talk open;y about what you're experiencing.
Using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), we can work together to understand unhelpful thought patterns, manage anxiety or low mood, build confidence and develop practical strategies for coping with the demands of parenthood. If you're experiencing challenges as a couple, couples therapy can help improve communication, strengthen your connection and support you in working together through this significant life transition.
You don't have to wait until things feel unbearable. Many parents benefit from support simply because they want to feel more like themselves again, strengthen their relationship or enjoy this chapter with greater confidence and calm.
Whatever you're facing, you don't have to face it alone. Taking the first step can be the beginning of feeling more connected - to yourself, your partner, and your family.Â
I have worked as a therapist within the NHS for over 15 years. I am passionate about delivering evidence-based care, and have been a therapist on research trials for depression & post-natal depression with the University of Exeter, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder with Ox-Cadat.
For more information about how I may be able to help, please see what I am able to offer, or book a free 15 minute chat here:
About Me
I'm Gemma. I am a trustworthy and compassionate therapist, qualified and experienced in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Behavioural Couples Therapy, Person‑Centred Counselling and CBT supervision. I have 15 + years experience working with people experiencing depression, anxiety difficulties (such as social anxiety, obsessive–compulsive disorder and post‑traumatic stress disorder), relationship distress and general stress. Throughout our work together, I place a strong focus on gently building and strengthening your self‑esteem.
I have a particular interest in helping women and men adjusting to the perinatal period. This stage of life brings numerous challenges; physical, emotional, financial, relational - and sometimes even trauma. Being a mother of two beautiful girls, I am no stranger to some of these challenges and believe strongly it is a period where some extra emotional support can be invaluable. I have worked on a post-natal depression study with the University of Exeter & Netmums, treated birth trauma, post-natal OCD, and worked with couples adjusting to being new parents.