Andrea Clark

Hello, I’m Andrea,

My way of working is trauma-informed, relational and collaborative. I aim to offer a safe, steady and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences at a pace that feels right for you. I understand that therapy can feel daunting, particularly if you are used to coping alone or putting others first, so building a sense of safety and trust is central to my work.

I work integratively, drawing on psychodynamic and attachment-based approaches. This means we may explore how past experiences, particularly early relationships, have shaped the ways you relate to yourself and others in the present. I am attentive to patterns such as people-pleasing, hyper-vigilance, emotional shutdown or self-criticism, and we approach these with curiosity and compassion rather than judgement.

Sessions are led by you. Some clients come with a clear focus, while others feel uncertain or overwhelmed — both are welcome. I work collaboratively, checking in regularly and adapting the work to your needs. Where helpful, I may offer gentle psychoeducation around trauma responses, the nervous system or relational patterns, always ensuring this feels supportive rather than overwhelming.

Therapy with me is not about fixing you, but about developing understanding, self-compassion and choice. Over time, this can support greater emotional resilience, clearer boundaries and a stronger sense of self.

I work ethically in line with the BACP Ethical Framework and engage in regular clinical supervision and ongoing professional development.

I offer one-to-one psychotherapy in a calm, confidential and supportive setting. My practice is grounded in trauma-informed care and is shaped by an understanding that many difficulties are rooted in earlier experiences and relational patterns rather than personal failure.

I have particular experience working with trauma, addiction and codependency, including the emotional impact of growing up in unpredictable or emotionally unsafe environments, or loving someone who struggles with substance use or compulsive behaviours. Clients often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted or stuck in patterns such as people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries, anxiety or low self-esteem.

My practice is inclusive and respectful, and I aim to create a space where you do not need to perform, explain yourself excessively or hold everything together. Sessions provide an opportunity to reflect, process emotions and develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your needs.

I work at a pace that prioritises emotional safety and stability, and therapy may be short-term or open-ended depending on your goals. I welcome clients who are new to therapy as well as those with previous experience.

I am a qualified integrative counsellor, an EFT practitioner, EMDR psychotherapist and Inner Child Healing practitioner. I undertake regular supervision and continuing professional development to ensure my practice remains ethical, reflective and responsive.

I do not offer a different structure or rate for the first session. The initial session is treated in the same way as ongoing therapy sessions, providing a consistent and contained starting point.

The first session offers an opportunity for us to begin getting to know one another and for you to share what has brought you to therapy. There is no expectation to go into anything in detail before you feel ready, and we will work at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you. Some clients find it helpful to talk about current difficulties, while others prefer to focus on what they hope therapy might offer — both approaches are welcome.

During the first session, I will also outline how I work, discuss practicalities such as confidentiality and boundaries, and ensure you have space to ask any questions. This helps you decide whether working together feels right for you.

I do not require clients to complete formal assessments prior to the first session. Therapy is shaped collaboratively over time, and any goals or areas of focus emerge through the work rather than being set in advance.

My aim in the first session, as in all sessions, is to offer a calm, respectful and non-judgemental space where you can begin therapy without pressure or expectation.