Louise McDowell

I offer a free 20-minute introductory Zoom call, with no obligation, so you can get a sense of how it feels to work together before making any commitment.

About Me

Hi, I’m Louise, a BACP Accredited integrative therapist with nearly a decade of experience working across the NHS, private practice, schools, charities, and specialist agencies. I currently offer private practice sessions in South West London, working with adults and young people, across London and Surrey.

I offer a warm, grounded, and non-judgmental space where you can explore difficult feelings at your own pace. Whether you’re navigating something specific or simply feeling stuck, therapy can be a place to slow down, make sense of your experiences, and find your way forward.

My Approach

I work integratively, drawing on Person-Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic approaches and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), adapting the work to suit each individual rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model. Together we can explore how past experiences may have shaped your current emotions, thoughts, or behaviours, while also developing practical tools to manage anxiety, stress, and unhelpful patterns in the present.

My style is supportive and collaborative. Clients often describe me as warm, steady, and reassuring; someone who can sit alongside them in difficult feelings without judgement.

Who I Work With

• Adults (18+): Individual sessions in person or via Zoom

• Young Adults (16–18): With parental or guardian consent

• Children & Young People (5–16): Please note I am not currently accepting new clients under 16 in private practice

Areas of Experience:

I support clients with a wide range of concerns, and I have a particular interest in working with young adults (18–25) as they navigate the transition from adolescence into adulthood, developing identity, autonomy, and resilience during a period that can feel both exciting and overwhelming.

I also work with parents of neurodiverse children and teenagers, particularly those with ADHD or autism, as well as parents managing their own transitions, such as empty nest syndrome. 

Specialist Training & Trauma-Informed Practice:

• Disordered Eating & Obesity — National Centre for Eating Disorders (NCFED), Pass with Distinction (2025)

• Trauma, The Brain and Recovery — Regents University (2023)

Safeguarding

I hold Advanced Safeguarding training for both children and adults, and adhere fully to current safeguarding legislation and BACP ethical guidelines. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of our work together, and any limits to confidentiality are always discussed openly and transparently from the outset.

Qualifications & Training

• MA Integrative Counselling & Psychotherapy for Children, Adolescents and Families — University of Roehampton (Merit, 2023)

• National Diploma in Eating Disorders — NCFED (Distinction, 2025)

• Obesity and Overeating Disorders — NCFED (Distinction, 2025)

• Trauma, The Brain and Recovery — Regents University (2023)

• Higher Level 5 Diploma, Therapeutic Counselling — Richmond Adult Community College (2017)

What Clients Say:

“Our sessions have been really helpful and insightful. My friendships have changed so much for the better, and I now feel more confident about going to university.” — Chloe, 18

“As a mum of two neurodiverse teens, I’ve found solace in our sessions. I’m calmer, better equipped to manage family life, and my teens are responding better to me.” — Nadine, 51

“Louise is really kind and listens to me. When I’m with her I feel really safe and this helps me be calm in other parts of my life.” — A, age 11

Getting in Touch

I see clients face-to-face and online via Zoom. Please get in touch to discuss availability and to book your free introductory call. I look forward to hearing from you.

Louise.mcdowell1977@gmail.com