Affirming, Inclusive, and Relational Psychotherapy in York
The relationship is the therapy …
Life can leave us feeling like outsiders—whether we are navigating the profound shifts of midlife and menopause, burnout, relationship difficulties, the complexities of exploring our identity, or carrying the burden of trauma and shame. You might feel ‘stuck’ in patterns that once protected you but now leave you feeling lonely or disconnected.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s look at what’s happening, together.
My name is Anne. I am a Gestalt psychotherapist, psychotherapeutic coach, and academic supervisor based in York, working in person from Clements Hall as well as online. At the heart of my practice is our therapeutic relationship — a healing encounter between human beings. I offer therapy for individuals over 25, couples/pairs, and diverse adult relationships.
A gestalt approach – being with what is
My approach to therapy is relational, affirming, and informed by social justice values. This means I am sensitive to history and context, non pathologising, interested in and respectful of all of who you are. So much of what we internalise as ‘personal struggle’ — anxiety, shame, self-criticism, or burnout — is a natural and valid response to past harms, systemic oppression, and structural inequality.
With a Gestalt lens, how we are together during each session offers insights about your broader patterns of suffering, relating, and self-awareness. Attention is given to thoughts, feelings, and other sensations as they arise, and their absences; as well as acknowledging the external forces that shape how you adapt to get by. Silence is always welcome, if this is comfortable for you.
We can also use creative and/or grounding practices to calm your nervous system when there are no words for what your mind-heart-body-soul knows. This might involve mindful breathing, body scans, gentle stretching or vigorous movement, stimming, or working with creative materials, music, poetry, and imagery. These are always co-created, tapping into what excites or grounds you.
Taking the first step – I am here to welcome you
Reaching out for support in a world that often demands self-reliance takes immense courage. I am here to meet you with warmth, curiosity, and care. Together, we will work at a pace and depth that feels right for you — exploring what feels difficult, and moving toward a deeper knowing that you no longer have to carry the load without support.
Let’s connect for an online introductory conversation to see if our way of being together feels right for you.
