Hi, I’m Rebecca.
I’m a BACP-registered psychodynamic psychotherapist specialising in working with children and young people.
Before training as a psychotherapist, I spent more than a decade working in education as a primary school teacher, special needs teacher, SENCO and autism advisor. Throughout that time, I became increasingly interested not only in children’s learning and development, but in their emotional worlds, relationships and experiences.
Today, I bring together my experience in education and SEND with my psychotherapy training. This helps me understand children within the wider context of their family relationships, development and experiences at school.
I offer weekly psychodynamic therapy, using play, creativity, games and conversation according to each child’s age and individual way of communicating. I work in a neurodiversity-affirming way, adapting therapy to the child rather than expecting the child to fit a particular model.
Alongside individual therapy, I offer regular parent meetings and, where helpful, work collaboratively with schools and other professionals. I provide sessions at the Henry Centre in Westcliff-on-Sea and can also offer regular therapy sessions within schools.
My Approach
My approach is warm, relational and grounded in curiosity rather than judgement. I do not see children as problems to be fixed. Instead, I try to understand what their feelings and behaviour may be communicating, while recognising their strengths, individuality and unique way of experiencing the world.
I work in a neurodiversity-affirming way, adapting therapy to the child rather than expecting them to fit a particular model. Depending on their age and preferences, sessions may involve play, creative materials, games or conversation.
Curiosity
Children cannot always explain their feelings directly. They may communicate through their behaviour, play, creativity, relationships or responses to the world around them.
Rather than focusing only on what a child is doing, I remain curious about what may be happening beneath the surface and what their behaviour might be helping them express.
Connection
I believe that meaningful change happens through relationships. Therapy offers a safe, reliable and accepting space where a child can gradually explore difficult feelings and experiences with someone alongside them.
Parents and carers are also an important part of this work. Regular parent meetings give us space to think together about your child and consider how they can be supported beyond the therapy room.
Understanding
Psychodynamic therapy helps children and young people develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their feelings and their relationships.
My background in education, SEND and psychotherapy also helps me understand each child within the wider context of their life. Where appropriate, and with careful attention to confidentiality, I can work collaboratively with parents, schools and other professionals to build a fuller picture of their needs and strengths.
Qualifications & Professional Practice
MA Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy – University of Essex
Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP)
National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO) – University of East London
BA (Hons) Primary Education – University of Greenwich
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Enhanced DBS checked
Fully insured
Regular clinical supervision
Ongoing continuing professional development
More than a decade of experience across education, SEND and autism support