Private therapy in London
How I can help
I’m first and foremost a human being offering a deeply empathic and soulful setting for therapeutic work. I have been working within a therapeutic capacity for over 20 years.
I believe every client is unique, and my training as an integrative psychotherapist enables me to draw on several therapeutic modalities. Once I get a sense of who you are, and what you need, I can tailor my approach to you.
In therapy, I offer a safe, confidential space where we can look at what’s on your mind without judgement. We’ll talk about the past, your personal relationships, work, and your hopes for the future.
I have strong interest in childhood trauma and C-PTSD, and how it can lead to social anxiety, isolation, relationship problems, depression, anxiety, and an inability to be creative and expressive.
At the centre of my approach is learning to relax into the present moment. Perhaps somewhat paradoxically, it’s through a deep acceptance of ‘what is’, that true and lasting change can come about.
During private counselling, I’ll invite you to let me into your world, to walk in your shoes, so I can experience your point of view. As we work through issues, you’ll begin to develop a new awareness and sensitivity towards yourself and others. You’ll learn to draw on your own wisdom and guidance.
I look forward to becoming a part of your journey.
How many sessions do I need?
Private therapy sessions are 50 minutes long, and are on a weekly basis.
The number of sessions you have is up to you, and isn’t something you have to decide before coming. Sometimes issues are resolved quickly, sometimes they take an extended period of time as explore in more depth.
Your needs and goals can be revisited regularly to make sure you’re getting what you require from the therapy
Qualifications
I trained at the Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy, London (CCPE) as an Integrative Transpersonal Psychotherapist.
I’ve worked as a psychological therapist for NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT) and as a counsellor for MIND in Camden.
I’m trained in trauma therapy, and several psychotherapeutic traditions, including Psychodynamic, Existential, Humanistic and Transpersonal. I also draw on a lifetime of meditation, and my work as a counsellor with the NHS in London. I’m a former London University lecturer, currently undertaking academic research in transpersonal psychotherapy.
As well as providing psychotherapy, I’m active in the arts, working on a variety of creative musical and artistic projects. I have a strong interest in mind-body therapies, having previously worked as a teacher of the Alexander Technique for many years.
I’m well placed to help clients who are artistically blocked, or who feel that they would benefit from having more spontaneity, playfulness or creative expression in their lives, but don’t know where to start.
“I have found Daren to be an experienced and intuitive therapist who can work with complex issues. His ability to draw on my own inner knowledge and unlock my creativity has been transformative and profoundly healing”
L.M.
The benefits of long term psychotherapy
There are a range of private counselling services and therapeutic approaches on offer in London, which tend to fall into two categories – short term and long term.
Short term therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR), and time-limited counselling, tend to last from between 8 and 12 weeks. You can apply for short term therapy on the NHS, where your therapist will focus on one particular issue.
Although I often use techniques from short-term therapies, I work with clients on a longer time scale. This is because it takes time for me to really get to know you, and for us to build a relationship where you feel safe enough to explore issues which are troubling you.
Private psychotherapy
Longer term talking therapies, such as psychotherapy are normally only available from a private therapist. They involve a commitment to meeting once a week, and exploring on a deep level.
In psychotherapy the focus is on building a trusting, safe relationship, where the client is able to talk about the past, and access traumas or unconscious motives which are influencing their lives. A strong relationship between therapist and client is key, and can lead to a transformative and healing outcome on many levels.
Long term therapy can last from several months to years, and is very effective for addressing complex issues which can be interrelated. These can include difficulties with personal relationships, anxiety, social anxiety, depression and self esteem. Psychotherapy is particularly effective for treating issues around childhood abuse, childhood trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD and narcissistic abuse.
Integrative therapy
It’s not uncommon for a client to start private therapy with a few sessions to address a specific mental health issue. But they’ll often discover there are underlying issues – around personal relationships, trauma or perhaps anxiety or eating disorders. This is where my role as a therapist grounded in integrative therapies is especially helpful, as I can provide guidance for wherever you are in your process.
If you need additional support, I can point you in the right direction – I know many professionals who have extensive experience in complimentary areas, or who can prescribe medication if needed.
An investment in yourself
Just as you invest in your physical health with exercise and diet, your mental health also requires regular maintenance. Taking the time to really know yourself is an investment in your well-being, and can lead to life-changing outcomes.
An experienced therapist can offer the support you need to cope with current challenges, such as work, relationships, anxiety and depression, while helping you to create new perspectives as you come to realise your true potential.
Online counselling has also become increasingly popular, especially for those unable to attend in-person sessions. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment, or book a first session so we can discuss your individual needs.