Samantha McDonnell

I currently have limited availability, either for long-term work. I also have availability for short-term face-to-face work, May - July.

I’m a Certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist and advanced-trained Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) therapist working with adults experiencing the effects of trauma, attachment wounds, dissociation, anxiety, depression, loss, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, chronic pain and life transitions.

Many people come to therapy having gained insight into their difficulties but still finding themselves caught in the same emotional, relational or physiological patterns. My approach integrates relational psychotherapy with body-based, trauma-informed methods that recognise how overwhelming experiences can continue to affect the nervous system, emotions, relationships and physical wellbeing long after they have occurred.

I have extensive experience supporting adults affected by developmental and relational trauma, including survivors of sexual, domestic and historical abuse. I also work with PTSD/CPTSD, dissociation, personality disorder diagnoses, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, chronic pain and hypermobility conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

My work is informed by Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment-Focused EMDR and Janina Fisher’s Trauma-Informed Stabilisation Treatment. I have a particular interest in working with dissociation and complex trauma. These primarily somatic, “bottom-up” approaches help address patterns of shock, survival responses and somatic distress, supporting greater regulation, integration and wellbeing.

Both professionally and personally, I have considerable experience working with LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse people, as well as those questioning aspects of identity. I also welcome parents struggling to understand or accept their child’s gender identity.

Before becoming a psychotherapist, I worked as a professional singer and teacher, giving me particular insight into performance-related pressure, visibility, perfectionism, creativity and the demands of high-achieving environments.

Practice

I practise at Thrive@SW6 in Fulham, South-West London:

http://thrivesw6.com/samantha-mcdonnell/#therapists  

I offer both short and long-term counselling for adults, face-to-face, online or by telephone - please enquire directly.

Free initial 15-minute telephone consultation.

NHS and Voluntary Work

In addition to private practice, I've worked with the NHS East London Integrative Therapy Team and held an honorary psychotherapy post at The Maudsley.

During five years volunteering for Victim Support, I worked mainly with survivors of rape and domestic/sexual abuse.

Qualifications and Ethical Codes of Conduct

Postgraduate Diploma in Humanistic Psychotherapeutic Counselling, Metanoia Institute

Certified Advanced Sensorimotor Psychotherapist (completed Levels 1, 2 & 3 Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP), and Advanced SP for C-PTSD and Dissociative Disorders)

Deep Brain Reorienting Level 3 Certified

Alexander Technique Interweaves for DBR trained

Certified Trauma-Informed Stabilisation Treatment Therapist (training with Janina Fisher)

Internal Family Systems Level 3 & Couples Therapy Certified

Attachment-Focused EMDR

Emotional Freedom Technique Level 3

Previously, I've trained in Somatic Trauma Therapy with Babette Rothschild.

Additionally, I’ve undertaken professional development courses in  personality disorders, early development, transgender issues and Mindful Self-Compassion.

I’m registered with the BACP and abide by their codes of ethics.

A first session offers the chance for us to meet and for you to decide if you would feel comfortable working with me. It's also an opportunity to air any questions or concerns you may have. You might then choose to have a few sessions before reviewing our work and deciding whether you would benefit from longer-term therapy.