Louise Socratous

I believe that therapy truly takes place when you are sitting alongside another human being that you feel you can trust. It’s not easy opening your soul to another person, and allowing yourself and that other person to really see who you are. This trust is held with the highest regard and is nurtured with care and warmth. I work from a Person-Centred model but know that everyone is different and will work integratively, drawing upon knowledge of other theoretical models to fit in with what you need. These can include existential therapy, psychodynamic counselling, Gestalt, CBT and mindfulness.

When we experience traumatic or upsetting times in our lives this can upset the equilibrium. As a result of this, we experience somatic symptoms in our body resulting from unprocessed emotional issues. We can consciously and unconsciously look for ways to cope, to stop ourselves feeling pain, we might develop an addiction or act or behave differently, become withdrawn and isolated, shutting people out.

I believe that therapy and healing can begin when we can start to ask ourselves questions and question our existence breaking down the barriers, learning to be open to new experience and emotions. Opening the door to our true authentic selves.

I am a fully qualified counsellor, having completed a Foundation Degree with Middlesex University and a Diploma accredited by the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I am also a registered member of the BACP. I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. I have experience of working with people who have suffered abuse, trauma, bereavement and loss, spirituality/existential issues, relational problems, drug and alcohol addiction and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and personality disorders.