My Approach

My approach is integrative and relational, with a strong grounding in psychodynamic thinking. Depending on the needs of each client, I draw on a range of approaches (including systemic and attachment-based) and incorporate creative ways of working, particularly with children and young people. This may include imagery, storytelling, clay, puppets, sandtray, and play, recognising that not all experiences can be expressed through words.

This work explores the deeper, often unconscious layers of thoughts, emotions, bodily experiences, and relational patterns, including how the past may be repeated or re-enacted in the present, alongside the influence of social, political, and cultural contexts on emotional wellbeing. This approach can be helpful for those experiencing longstanding emotional difficulties, trauma responses, relationship challenges, self-criticism, unresolved past experiences, body image and identity-related concerns, or looking for self-exploration.

We will work at your pace, focusing on what feels most important to you, and whatever you bring, whether that involves healing from difficult experiences, managing losses, conflicts, and life transitions, or seeking a greater sense of connection. I offer a consistent and confidential time and space to think carefully and openly about these experiences; supporting you to develop a deeper understanding of your inner world, explore underlying patterns, emotional difficulties, and aspects of yourself that you may find hard to access.

If this resonates, please get in touch to arrange an introductory call. You can also email me any questions you may have (sandra@edinburghpsychotherapy.com).

About Me

I am a psychotherapist, qualified to work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, low mood, dissociation, anger, loneliness, loss, transitions, family breakdown, domestic abuse, self-worth, disordered eating, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. I work with complex trauma, attachment difficulties, relationship challenges, and the impact of childhood experiences. I have also supported young people who have or are awaiting a neurodevelopmental diagnosis, holding in mind the emotional and relational impact of this.

I have worked and studied across different countries with children, young people, families, and adults within education, mental health, and social care settings. I currently work in the third sector, providing mental health support to children and young people, and I am involved in counselling training for adults. I hold the following qualifications:

• Doctorate of Psychotherapy and Counselling, University of Edinburgh

• Master of Science in International Relations, University of Edinburgh

• Bachelor of Social Work, Lund University

• Postqualifying diploma in Psychotherapy (Children & Adolescents), UKCP-accredited

• Postgraduate diploma in Counselling (Adults), COSCA-validated

• Certificate in Clinical Supervision, UKCP-accredited

• Certificate in Academic Practice, Associate Fellowship with the Higher Education Academy

• Selected additional training: Emotionally-focused Family Therapy, Mentalisation-based Treatment for Families, Infant Observation, and Group Work.

Types of Therapies Offered

• Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist