Ruth Stephen

You’re very welcome here.

You may be looking for therapy because something feels difficult—perhaps anxiety, overwhelm, low mood, or a sense of feeling stuck or not quite yourself. It may be something else entirely. You might not have a clear way of describing it yet, and that’s OK. I offer a calm, thoughtful space where we can explore what’s going on for you, at your pace, and in a way that feels manageable. I will listen carefully to your story and work alongside you with warmth, curiosity, and respect.

My name is Ruth, and I offer counselling through my practice; Cedar Tree Therapy, based on the edge of Nottingham city centre. I work from a quiet room on The Ropewalk, with a view of a cedar tree that inspired my practice name. For me, the cedar tree reflects something important about therapy, and about being human: deep roots, and the uniqueness of each individual. Therapy can create space to feel more grounded, supported, and able to grow in your own way.

I am trained in a relational developmental integrative approach and hold a Master’s degree from the Sherwood Psychotherapy Training Institute. This approach to therapy brings together numerous complementary theories. It means I consider how your past experiences—especially early relationships—may shape how you feel, cope, and relate today. Together, we can explore both what is happening in your life now and the deeper patterns that may sit underneath.

The therapeutic relationship itself is an important part of the process. I aim to offer a space where you can feel safe, heard, and understood. My work is trauma-informed and rooted in humanistic perspective. I take a holistic approach, recognising the connection between mind and body, and that some experiences may be difficult to put into words. Where helpful, we can work creatively as well as through talking, should you wish to.

Practical information

I work with adults (18+) in Nottingham, close to the city centre. I offer mainly in-person counselling for individuals.

My approach is down-to-earth, gently warm, and thoughtful. I aim to offer a space that is inclusive, caring, respectful and accepting — where diversity is welcomed, and you feel taken seriously. I am interested in you and your unique story, and tailor our work to your needs. We begin with whatever feels most important to you right now, and I will work at a pace that feels respectful and manageable. Therapy can help you develop greater self-awareness, understand patterns, and find new ways of relating to yourself and others. My hope is that our work supports you to feel more at ease, more connected to yourself, and better able to navigate your life.

Areas I work with

I work with a range of issues, some of which are listed here. You don’t need to have a clear label for what you are experiencing. If something feels difficult, that is enough. You, as my client, will be at the centre of the work we do together. Your unique experience and what you are going through will guide our focus.

I have a particular interest in early relational trauma, attachment, and long-standing or complex emotional difficulties.

Experience

I have Master’s-level training in Integrative Psychotherapy and a BA (Hons) in Humanities, which has informed my understanding of the human experience in its wider context. Alongside my private practice, I have experience working in an NHS-based counselling and psychotherapy service, supporting adults with a range of emotional and psychological difficulties. I have also worked as a therapist in a service supporting women. Previous to training, I have worked within the third sector, and for a national corporation.

Professional Membership

• Registered member of BACP; UKCP trainee
• Work guided by BACP, UKCP & Sherwood Psychotherapy Training Institute ethical frameworks
• Committed to confidentiality, supervision, reflective practice & CPD
• Holder of indemnity insurance, enhanced DBS & ICO (GDPR compliant)

Getting started

I understand that reaching out for counselling can feel like a big step, which is a normal response.

I offer a free 15-minute introductory call so we can talk about the possibility of working together, and you can ask any questions you may have. You are also welcome to email me with any questions, including practical queries such as location and travel.

If we decide to go ahead with an initial session, this will be a full 50 minute session in person where we can explore potential work in more depth.

Please note that my therapy room is on the second floor and there is no lift to aid access. There are continual handrails both sides of the stairs.

Contact

You are very welcome to get in touch. There is a contact form from this directory.

If you don’t receive a reply, please feel free to email again in case there has been a technical issue. Here are further ways to contact me:

📞07575640386

📧 ruth.cedartreetherapy@gmail.com

I aim to respond within 24 hours, Monday–Friday.