I am a CTA (Certified Transactional Analyst) and hold an MSc in Transactional Analysis Psychotherapy from Metanoia Institute and Middlesex University.
The CTA is an internationally recognised psychotherapy qualification awarded by the European Association for Transactional Analysis and the International Transactional Analysis Association, which aligns with UKCP (UK Counsel for Psychotherapy) registration in the UK.
See my UKCP profile here.
When Mothers (and fathers) experience emotional distress in the post-natal period it is often labelled Post-Natal Depression. Whilst this term may help some in identifying their difficulties, in my experience of working with mothers the difficulties faced are far more nuanced and individual. I have worked with mothers in the post-natal period to address experiences such anger (maternal rage), post-natal anxiety, loss of self, alienation and isolation, and difficulties with adjusting to a new identity as a mother.
Up to 20% of women suffer mental ill-health in the first year after the birth of a child (Public Health England, 2017). A traumatic birth, lack of sleep, feeding difficulties, lack of support and isolation, and pressure on your relationships can all contribute to feelings of overwhelm and sadness. These feelings are not uncommon and they may be transient, but if you feel you are not able to cope, or you feel not-yourself, it may be time to seek help.
It is natural to feel unsure of what you are doing in any new role; motherhood is no different. It is also OK to not enjoy the demanding work of being a mother. The assumptions imposed by social and cultural pressures can lead women to feel not good enough and alone.
Sometimes my clients simply need a non-judgemental and supportive space in which to express their experience of motherhood, or their relationship difficulties after becoming a mother. Sometimes parenthood can stir deeper emotional traumas that can manifest in a multitude of emotional and physical responses. Research is beginning to show how much a woman’s experience of motherhood is shaped by her own early experience of being mothered.
Talking therapy provides a space for women to explore their experience of being a mother and what may be triggered from their own infancy or childhood.
Anger is a natural human emotion, it's also the most misunderstood, misinterpreted and under researched. Anger can be a positive emotion that drives positive change, but those who struggle with anger often experience poor self-esteem, social anxiety, relationship difficulties and physical health problems. Anger can be turned outward towards others and the world, or it can be turned inward, often experienced as depression, usually someone may experience a pendulum between the two. I offer a safe, non-judgemental space to understand and find relief to the experience of unhelpful anger.
Anxiety is one of the most common reasons why someone might seek psychotherapeutic help. You might need help navigating a difficult life experience, or you might feel that ongoing anxiety is impacting your ability to achieve life satisfaction. Over many years I have worked with people to make meaning of their anxiety, achieve symptomatic relief and achieve positive change.
Neurodivergent masking is a coping strategy which involves mimicking social cues, forcing eye contact, scripting conversations, modifying physical appearance and suppressing stims.
To fit into a neurotypical environment, those who are neurodiverse or have neurodiverse traits unconsciously work hard to meet social expectations and avoid discrimination, stigma, or negative judgment. While masking can be a useful survival tool, it is mentally taxing and can lead to negative consequences such as autistic burnout, poor mental health, isolation, and a diminished sense of self. Typically, more women than men mask and often will not even be aware that they are doing it, instead experiencing underlying feelings such as sadness, isolation, anxiety and anger. Masking often leads to difficultly in achieving satisfying relationships and career.
Over many years I have worked with men and women in achieving a better sense of self, improved self-esteem and healthier relationships.
Transactional Analysis is ideal for working with couples. I have worked with many couples experiencing difficulties and looking for a way forward.