Catherine Sharp

My name is Catherine Sharp. I am a BACP accredited/UKCP registered psychotherapist/counsellor. I have very considerable experience in working as a private therapist. I run training days for Anxiety, Obsessive Behaviours and have co-led an extensive programme working with perpetrators of domestic abuse.

I specialise in depression, anxiety and relationship problems. I also work with clients who struggle to find strategies that enable them to express their emotions in appropriate ways. In addition I work with loss, sexual abuse, bereavement and low self-esteem.

My core training is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. I believe we are shaped by the circumstances and relationships that we have with significant people as we grow up. As some patterns of behaviour or types of relationship, good or bad, may repeat in subsequent relationships we might explore past influences to understand if they are continuing to impact in the present. I have also trained in Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, both are useful for providing step by step interventions towards personal goals. CBT also helps clients recognise the link between negative thought patterns and behaviours. I would help the client to identify positive coping strategies and introduce changes that result in the client feeling more in control of their lives and choices. I also believe that the quality of the relationship between us is vital in bringing about beneficial change and take great care to establish a trusting environment where the client can talk openly about personal matters without fear of being judged.

Session rates £80.00 per hour.

Assessment sessions are a good opportunity for us to meet one another for a first time with no obligation for you to continue until you feel comfortable, and that we are each clear on what you are hoping to achieve from the therapy, both focus and goals. I will make sure that I tell you about practical details such as  the limits of confidentiality, note keeping, booking sessions and payment.  Prior to the assessment session I will send you my counselling agreement which explains the above in greater detail.  I also ask about your personal circumstances so that I am aware of how much backup and support you have at home.