Melissa Kirwan

Please contact me for my availability.

I am a fully qualified, BACP registered psychodynamic therapist working online and near Billingshurst, West Sussex. I strive to create an open and accepting atmosphere for clients to work through their difficulties and gain a better understanding of themselves and their past experiences, in order to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives.

The aim of psychodynamic therapy is to understand our current thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the context of our past experiences and unconscious conflicts. My approach in sessions incorporates psychodynamic theory with a motivation towards creating empowerment and a bespoke approach to you and your individual concerns. Sessions are always tailored to your needs and at a pace you feel comfortable with. I believe in building a trusting, supportive therapeutic relationship through acceptance, openness and transparency, all of which you can expect from me at all times during our work together. It is my aim to help you explore and understand your current and past experiences, how these are impacting your wellbeing and reduce any self-blame you may be feeling for the difficulties you are having. This approach can lead to changes in repeating patterns that are causing distress, healthier relationships with yourself and others, and help you build confidence to move forward as your authentic self.

I work with individuals aged 17 and upwards who are experiencing a variety of difficulties including anxiety, experiences of trauma, abuse, depression, OCD, phobias and relationship difficulties. I offer both short- and long-term approaches - we can discuss the best approach for you during our first session and/or as our work progresses.

I practise online and in a calm, quiet therapy room in the heart of the West Sussex countryside near Billingshurst. In Ifold, Billingshurst, my therapy room is set in a beautiful private garden, again with ample parking available and private side access to the building.

Choosing to begin therapy is a big step and I understand finding the right therapist for you is extremely important - I'm happy to answer any questions

During our first session, I’ll explain how I work and ask some questions to get a sense of your current difficulties. I know starting therapy can feel like a big step, so I keep initial sessions relaxed, and you can share only as much as feels comfortable. You’ll have space to ask me any questions, and together we can explore whether working with each other feels like the right fit.