Psychotherapy
with Louise Leonard
Welcome
I am a UKCP-registered psychotherapist with several years of experience.
I offer one-to-one long or short term therapy for adults (18+).
My therapy room is in Haggerston/Dalston, Hackney, East London, or if you prefer we can work online.
How I work
My practice takes a Person-Centred approach. This means that I hold the fundamental belief that deep down, you know what's best to achieve your own optimum outcome in any life problem. Therefore, I will never claim to be an expert on your experience. Instead, I will endeavour to support and empower you to listen to your own inner experience and clarify your own thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, it's hard for us to get in touch with that inner knowing because, throughout our lives, we may have internalised judgements from others. This can create an internal conflict or a block. My aim is to create an accepting, non-judgemental, understanding environment that can give you the space to work through any issues safely, confidentially and at your own pace. Working together, we can find ways to untangle your blocks, get closer to your inner knowing and move towards becoming the person you want to be.
about me
Originally from New York, I have been living in London since 1989. I spent 20 years as a BBC film editor working on various dramas and documentary programmes. In 2009 I made the decision to move on and pursue my longstanding interest in well-being. This led me to a period of study where I gained a BSc in Psychology, then a post-graduate diploma and an MSc in Person-Centred Psychotherapy. I have also gained yoga teaching qualifications along the way and continue to teach yoga which I find gives me a rounded experience of physical as well as emotional and psychological well-being. I enjoy living in Hackney with my partner and two adult daughters.
My Experience
I have experience of working sensitively with many people and many types of issues, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Indecision
- Lack of self-esteem
- Shyness
- Feelings of shame
- Feelings of anger and frustration
- Feelings of sadness
- Loss and bereavement
- Difficulty in getting in touch with feelings
- Impact of bodily pain, illness, chronic health conditions and disabilities
- Difficulties in interpersonal relationships
- Family conflict
- Significant life changes
- Workplace stress or conflict
- Bullying
Although I treat every issue with the same level of importance, I have particular experience in bereavement counselling and working with clients who are living with bodily pain and chronic health conditions.
I have worked in a general counselling service in West London 2016-2017.
I have worked in a bereavement counselling service in Hackney from 2017-2020.
I have worked in an NHS setting from 2018-2020. Firstly, in Occupational Health, offering psychotherapy to NHS staff and then in Clinical Health, working with patients suffering from long-term health conditions.
I have been working in private practice in Hackney since 2020.
My Education
Metanoia Institute, 2021-2023
MSc in Person-Centred Psychotherapy and Contemporary Applications
Metanoia Institute, 2016-2021
PG dip. in Person-Centred Psychotherapy
(UKCP registered training programme)
The Open University, 2009-2012
BSc in Psychology
Purchase College, State University of New York 1981-1985
BA in Social Science and Visusl Arts
FEES
I offer an initial phone call (15 minutes) free of charge to give us both the opportunity to find out if we are a good fit for each other and can begin to work together. Thereafter, I charge £70 per 50-minute session. Some discounted places may be available following a discussion of your circumstances.
I require 48 hours notice to cancel a booked session.
Contact me
For more information or to arrange an initial meeting do get in touch by email.
My therapy room is located at HQ Therapy Rooms - Haggerston, Hackney, East London and within easy reach of Dalston, De Beauvoir Town, Islington, Hoxton, Shoreditch, Stoke Newington, Stamford Hill, London Fields, Homerton, Stratford and The City of London.
I also offer online sessions over Zoom.
HQ Therapy Rooms
322c Kingsland Road, Haggerston, London E8 4DE