Colleen Downey

I am licensed in the UK and a registered member of the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP). I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey

WHAT IS PSYCHODYNAMIC COUNSELLING?

Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy is a modern model of traditional Psychoanalysis. Psychodynamic therapists believe the mind is dynamic with different forces (these forces can sometimes be opposing) working within us simultaneously at any one time. The forces within our psyche 'colour' our views of ourself and the world around us and influence the way we live our lives and the choices we make.

The Unconscious and Past Experiences

Our past experiences leave us with impressions - some we can recognise, and others have unconsciously been taken on board. When we approach new situations we bring with us our past experiences to make sense of the 'here and now'. Difficulties may arise when unhelpful patterns of behaviour/ways of relating which were instilled earlier on are then applied to the present. Psychodynamic therapy helps to identify unhelpful patterns so they can be recognised and thought about consciously and thus, providing us with a greater understanding of out selves and improving our ability to make the changes we desire.

How do the Sessions Work?

Sessions are normally held once (sometimes twice) a week, at the same time on the same day to create a stable routine and to help build trust in the process. However, bi-weekly sessions will be considered. There is not assigned homework and the therapist does not have an agenda but works directly with that which the client chooses to bring. The therapeutic relationship is believed to be a key ingredient to understanding our established patterns of relating and can be a powerful tool for helping us understand ourselves and our personal dynamics.

I offer a free initial consultation via Zoom - consultations normally last from 10-30 minutes 

Are you looking for a safe and non judgemental environment to share what's on your mind? Then welcome!

I have been lucky enough to have a wide variety of clients who have used our time together to work through a huge range of different issues. My own personal therapy has  helped change my life and I feel privileged that I have the opportunity to travel with others on their therapeutic journey towards a more satisfying and fulfilling future.

Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy is a modern model of traditional Psychoanalysis. Psychodynamic therapists believe the mind is dynamic with different forces (these forces can sometimes be opposing) working within us simultaneously at any one time. The forces within our psyche 'colour' our views of ourself and the world around us and influence the way we live our lives and the choices we make

Our past experiences leave us with impressions - some we can recognise, and others have unconsciously been taken on board. When we approach new situations we bring with us our past experiences to make sense of the 'here and now'. Difficulties may arise when unhelpful patterns of behaviour/ways of relating which were instilled earlier on are then applied to the present. Psychodynamic therapy helps to identify unhelpful patterns so they can be recognised and thought about consciously and thus, providing us with a greater understanding of out selves and improving our ability to make the changes we desire. 

Sessions are normally held once (sometimes twice) a week, at the same time on the same day to create a stable routine and to help build trust in the process. There is not assigned homework and the therapist does not have an agenda but works directly with that which the client chooses to bring. The therapeutic relationship is believed to be a key ingredient to understanding our established patterns of relating and can be a powerful tool for helping us understand ourselves and our personal dynamics. 

I am very happy to offer a free initial consultation - these normally last around 10 - 30 minutes and are carried out on the Zoom platform. The consultation will provide us with the opportunity to get to know each other a little more. The consultation will also allow you to share the reasons behind you choosing to start therapy and allow you to ask any questions you may have. I will look forward to meeting with you!