Liz Hawkins MBACP (Accredited & Registered)

Talking to a trained counsellor/psychotherapist can help when life events and experiences challenge us or we feel stuck in patterns of behaviour that no longer serve us well. I see talking therapy as a way of helping to make sense of experiences, becoming aware of who we are, developing strategies to enhance resilience & well-being to empower us in the journey of life.

During my years working as a nurse then counsellor/psychotherapist I have worked with clients experiencing many forms of distress and facing a wide range of challenges. In the first session I listen to the reasons that you are seeking therapy and you decide what changes you want to make and we agree the way forward. This can be short term, time limited or long term. We will then work together in a way that will help you to understand yourself, your interpersonal dynamics and your inner processes enabling you to feel clearer, more positive, more energetic and have more coping resources.

My work as a nurse furthered my interest in the complex link between emotional, physical and spiritual well-being and led to my training in psychotherapy, cognitive behaviour therapy, mindfulness and energy psychology. I completed a Masters degree in Psychotherapy and Healing Practice with the Society of Psychology and Healing (validated by Middlesex University) in 2010 and have been in private practice since then. I furthered this with Mindfulness Cognitive Therapy training with the same organisation and have since completed further training in mindfulness meditation.

As a therapist my approach draws on psychodynamic theory, transpersonal, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness and energy psychology. My experience includes working with stress, relationship issues, work related issues, anxiety, depression, pregnancy, post-natal depression, mental health issues, loss, long term health issues, chronic pain, bereavement. I work with adults (18 yrs onwards).

I currently combine my private counselling/psychotherapy practice with teaching counselling & therapeutic relationship skills, reflective practice, personal & professional development to healthcare students at a leading university in London. I also work within a counselling team supporting students in a university in Surrey.