Compassionate & confidential care for your mental health.
Psychodynamic Therapy in Brighton and Hove, and online.
You’ve probably been struggling for quite some time.
Perhaps you’re feeling more overwhelmed, anxious, edgy or irritable than usual. On some days you’ve found yourself on the verge of tears, while on others you’ve felt curiously numb & empty.
The holiday, the self help books, the podcasts, the apps and the yoga retreat - they all helped - for a while.
But now you’ve hit a new low.
Whatever you are carrying, you are most welcome here.
I recognise the courage it’s taken to even consider starting therapy.
Because that’s who I see: a brave, capable and resourceful person who’s having a hard time — and could do with someone they don’t have to be “fine” around.
It would be a privilege to be that “someone.”
My approach is psychodynamic and collaborative.
I’ll work alongside you as you explore your inner world with curiosity and compassion, so that you can begin to make sense of your feelings and understand yourself more deeply.
Through this process many people discover a more peaceful, connected and authentic way of being.
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are ”
Karl Jung
Why choose me?
-
I’ll be an active participant in your therapy, walking alongside you every step of they way. I’ll meet you where you are and you’ll set the pace, the tone and the direction of travel. Our sessions will range from lively experiences fuelled by dynamic exercises to moving experiences as we face previously unbearable feelings, together.
-
My intensive and rigorous training enables me to work at depth, probing beneath the surface to uncover unconscious and hidden beliefs, ideas or fears that get in the way of your happiness and wellbeing.
-
I focus on the whole person - mind, body and spirit. I offer practical techniques that help to regulate the nervous system which in turn helps to manage anxiety, feelings of overwhelm and dysregulation.
-
I use creative methods in my practice such as visualisations, metaphor, storytelling and movement to help clients explore their feelings and gain new perspectives. These approaches provide a safe space for expression, unlocking deeper insights and emotional growth.
-
I have significance experience of working with individuals with ADHD and Autism. I recognise neurodivergent ways of thinking, feeling, and communicating as meaningful expressions of a person’s unique mind, and I seek to adapt the therapeutic space to honour each client’s sensory needs, processing styles and ways of being.
My goal is to make therapy feel like a natural, enjoyable conversation, rather than something intimidating or artificial. Clients tell me they value my genuine and down-to-earth way of working.
Specialisms.
Through my work in charity and university counselling services, I’ve developed insight into a variety of specialisms and gained a deep understanding of the different challenges clients bring.
-
You may feel low, flat, or numb—struggling to find motivation or meaning in things you once enjoyed. Together, we’ll explore what’s going on beneath the surface, reconnect with your inner resources, and find a way forward that feels meaningful and sustainable.
-
Anxiety can take many forms—constant worry, overthinking, panic, or a lingering sense that something is “not quite right.” It often feels like you're always on edge, waiting for something to go wrong. I offer a calm, grounding space where we can explore the roots of your anxiety and develop ways to manage it with more clarity and self-compassion.
-
Many clients I work with struggle with a harsh inner critic - never feeling good enough, comparing themselves to others, or struggling to acknowledge their own worth. We’ll work to understand where these beliefs come from and help you build a more compassionate and confident relationship with yourself.
-
My background as an executive and career coach gives me a deep understanding of intricate workplace relationships and organisational challenges, allowing me to guide clients through professional challenges with both strategic insight and emotional support. Whether it’s pressure, perfectionism, conflict, or feeling stuck in a role that no longer fits, work can be a major source of stress. I support clients in understanding their patterns, setting boundaries, and rediscovering balance—so work becomes something you do, not something that defines or depletes you.
-
You might be feeling disconnected from your partner, stuck in recurring patterns, or struggling with intimacy, boundaries, or communication. I help clients reflect on their relationship dynamics—past and present—and support them in building healthier, more enjoyable connections.
-
Life changes can disrupt the coping strategies we’ve relied on for years, making them feel outdated or insufficient when faced with new challenges. These transitions often force us to confront patterns or behaviors that no longer serve us, leaving us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. In therapy, we explore how these shifts are impacting you and work together to develop healthier ways of responding, helping you adapt to the changes and find more effective ways of managing the stress and uncertainty they bring.
Frequently asked questions.
You probably have quite a few questions about how I work. I’ve tried to answer some of them for you.
-
Therapy is beneficial for anyone who is feeling overwhelmed, facing life changes, experiencing emotional pain, or dealing with mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, or stress. If you feel stuck or unsure about how to move forward in your life, therapy can provide the guidance and support to help you gain clarity and create positive change.
-
I charge £65 for a 50 minute session.
-
A free consultation is an opportunity for you to get to know me and ask any questions you may have about the therapy process. During the consultation, we’ll discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals, and any concerns you might have. The goal is to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in moving forward. There’s no obligation to continue after the consultation, so it’s a great way to see if this I’m the right therapist for you.
-
In your first session, you’ll have the opportunity to share your concerns and goals for therapy. We’ll discuss your history, any challenges you’re facing, and start building a relationship where you feel heard and understood. You don’t need to have everything figured out—this session is about getting to know each other and starting the process at your own pace.
-
The length of therapy depends on your individual needs and goals. Some people choose short term therapy (8 - 12 weeks) to work through a specific issue, while others may choose longer-term therapy for ongoing support.
-
I have a PGDip in Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy from Brighton University. I’m also a Certified Co-Active Coach.
I’m a Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and abide by their code of ethics.
-
Phone 999 or go to A&E if you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm, or you're in a life threatening situation.
Alternatively, please contact the following organisations.
call NHS 111 and select the mental health option (also known as the Sussex Mental Healthline) or the Samaritans on 116 123 (both available 24/7)
visit a Staying Well service (out-of-hours mental health crisis support service for people aged 18+ available in Brighton)
if you are over 18, call 0300 304 0078 to access Mental Health Rapid Response Service
text the word SUSSEX to 85258 (24/7 mental health text-messaging support service)
download the Stay Alive app - a suicide prevention resource full of useful information and tools to help you stay safe in crisis
-
Great to hear you’re interested in working with me. The relational “fit” between client and therapist is one of the most important factors in successful therapy. I recommend all clients book a free 15 minute consultation to see if I’m the right therapist for you. You can book here: https://calendly.com/violet-black/initial-meeting