Psychodynamic Counselling in High Peak

Photo of Ailsa Parsons, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Ailsa Parsons
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
High Peak SK22
Are you experiencing the effects of trauma, relational abuse, eating/body/lifestyle-related difficulties or neurodivergent overwhelm? These issues are my core specialisms, however I also support clients in creative and high‑pressure roles who are navigating burnout, identity shifts or chronic tension. Many clients come to me feeling stuck, burnt out or carrying long‑term stress as symptoms in their bodies. Some have tried to cope alone through research, journalling or self‑help but nothing has shifted enough. I offer a calm, grounded space where you can slow down, feel understood and begin to make sense of what is happening.
Are you experiencing the effects of trauma, relational abuse, eating/body/lifestyle-related difficulties or neurodivergent overwhelm? These issues are my core specialisms, however I also support clients in creative and high‑pressure roles who are navigating burnout, identity shifts or chronic tension. Many clients come to me feeling stuck, burnt out or carrying long‑term stress as symptoms in their bodies. Some have tried to cope alone through research, journalling or self‑help but nothing has shifted enough. I offer a calm, grounded space where you can slow down, feel understood and begin to make sense of what is happening.
01663 790140 View 01663 790140
Photo of Alexander Trillo, Counsellor, MBACP
Alexander Trillo
Counsellor, MBACP
High Peak SK22
My work is relational and depth-oriented, drawing on psychodynamic, humanistic and transpersonal traditions.
People often reach out when something in their life feels heavy, confusing or quietly overwhelming. You don’t need to have a clear story to begin. I offer a calm, confidential space where you can slow down, speak honestly, and explore what feels out of step or painful. Much of what shapes us lives below the surface — old patterns, shame, grief, relationships, the body’s responses. Therapy is a place to bring these into conversation, gently and at your pace, so that new understanding and possibilities can begin to emerge.
My work is relational and depth-oriented, drawing on psychodynamic, humanistic and transpersonal traditions.
People often reach out when something in their life feels heavy, confusing or quietly overwhelming. You don’t need to have a clear story to begin. I offer a calm, confidential space where you can slow down, speak honestly, and explore what feels out of step or painful. Much of what shapes us lives below the surface — old patterns, shame, grief, relationships, the body’s responses. Therapy is a place to bring these into conversation, gently and at your pace, so that new understanding and possibilities can begin to emerge.
01538 711557 View 01538 711557
Photo of Chloe Dawson, Counsellor, MBACP
Chloe Dawson
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Chloe, and I'm neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQ+ inclusive, and I take an integrative approach that pulls from different therapeutic models, such as Psychodynamic and person-centred, to best fit your unique needs, experiences, and goals.
I believe I have a uniquely varied knowledge base as well as my own lived experiences anchoring my practice, including neurodiversity and late diagnosis of ADHD/Autism, depression, anxiety, addiction, relationships and OCD. I also have experience and knowledge about working with trauma related to childbirth, sexual abuse, chronic illness and more.
I'm Chloe, and I'm neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQ+ inclusive, and I take an integrative approach that pulls from different therapeutic models, such as Psychodynamic and person-centred, to best fit your unique needs, experiences, and goals.
I believe I have a uniquely varied knowledge base as well as my own lived experiences anchoring my practice, including neurodiversity and late diagnosis of ADHD/Autism, depression, anxiety, addiction, relationships and OCD. I also have experience and knowledge about working with trauma related to childbirth, sexual abuse, chronic illness and more.
01663 794122 View 01663 794122
Photo of Liz Boyd, Counsellor, MBACP
Liz Boyd
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, my name is Liz, and I am a counsellor based in Buxton. I see clients face-to-face in Buxton and also offer online sessions for those who prefer the flexibility of therapy at home. I support people in understanding anxiety, not by fighting against it, but by learning what it’s trying to protect. Helping to gain a deeper understanding of your triggers, so they feel less overwhelming, and how to respond in ways that feel calmer, steadier, and more in control.
Hi, my name is Liz, and I am a counsellor based in Buxton. I see clients face-to-face in Buxton and also offer online sessions for those who prefer the flexibility of therapy at home. I support people in understanding anxiety, not by fighting against it, but by learning what it’s trying to protect. Helping to gain a deeper understanding of your triggers, so they feel less overwhelming, and how to respond in ways that feel calmer, steadier, and more in control.
01538 711155 View 01538 711155

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tracy Booth - Mind Together, Counsellor, MBACP
Mind Together
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Are you looking for someone to listen and help you make sense of yourself or feeling overwhelmed and not sure what your feeling, well hello I am Tracy an experienced fully qualified counsellor here to help. Give me a call for a no obligation chat. Many come to counselling and don't know where to begin, it could be you are feeling overwhelmed, lost, stressed or at a point in your life where you feel stuck and unable to move forward. Are you experiencing anxiety, depression or problems in or with a relationship? Have you suffered trauma or bereavement or in a place where you don't understand what your feeling, this is where I come in.
Are you looking for someone to listen and help you make sense of yourself or feeling overwhelmed and not sure what your feeling, well hello I am Tracy an experienced fully qualified counsellor here to help. Give me a call for a no obligation chat. Many come to counselling and don't know where to begin, it could be you are feeling overwhelmed, lost, stressed or at a point in your life where you feel stuck and unable to move forward. Are you experiencing anxiety, depression or problems in or with a relationship? Have you suffered trauma or bereavement or in a place where you don't understand what your feeling, this is where I come in.
01538 712541 View 01538 712541
Photo of Hywel Harrington, Counsellor, MBACP
Hywel Harrington
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I use a foundation of Person Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused and more.
Do you need some support? Do you want to collaborate with a therapist, rather than feeling that they're the expert? I’m currently taking on clients from all backgrounds, and I specialise in working with queer and trans youth and adults. I am neurodiversity affirming, and have experience working with autistic and ADHD clients with low to medium support needs. Whatever your identity or background, I will tailor my therapeutic approach to suit you and your needs at this time.
I use a foundation of Person Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused and more.
Do you need some support? Do you want to collaborate with a therapist, rather than feeling that they're the expert? I’m currently taking on clients from all backgrounds, and I specialise in working with queer and trans youth and adults. I am neurodiversity affirming, and have experience working with autistic and ADHD clients with low to medium support needs. Whatever your identity or background, I will tailor my therapeutic approach to suit you and your needs at this time.
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Photo of Kate Hough, Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Kate Hough
Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Kate and I am the proud founder of Dot's Counselling & Wellbeing. I understand the process of finding a counsellor and opening up about your feelings can be difficult, but trust me... there's not a lot I haven't heard! So whatever issue you're facing or feelings you have, no matter how big or small, please feel free to give me a call, text or email to arrange a FREE 15 min consultation to see if I'm the right fit for you. I aim to build trusting, empowering relationships with my clients, creating a safe and confidential space for you to truly feel heard.
My name is Kate and I am the proud founder of Dot's Counselling & Wellbeing. I understand the process of finding a counsellor and opening up about your feelings can be difficult, but trust me... there's not a lot I haven't heard! So whatever issue you're facing or feelings you have, no matter how big or small, please feel free to give me a call, text or email to arrange a FREE 15 min consultation to see if I'm the right fit for you. I aim to build trusting, empowering relationships with my clients, creating a safe and confidential space for you to truly feel heard.
01707 241942 View 01707 241942
Photo of James Barnes - James Barnes MA., MSc., Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
James Barnes MA., MSc.
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling disconnected in relationships, perhaps longing for closeness but somehow ending up feeling misunderstood, alone or caught in the same painful patterns again and again? Or maybe you've always been the one who looks after everyone else, appearing capable and resilient on the outside, yet privately feel exhausted, anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure who you really are beneath the roles you've learned to play. Many of the people I work with come to therapy carrying such feelings, and I help them find real change in thier lives.
Do you find yourself feeling disconnected in relationships, perhaps longing for closeness but somehow ending up feeling misunderstood, alone or caught in the same painful patterns again and again? Or maybe you've always been the one who looks after everyone else, appearing capable and resilient on the outside, yet privately feel exhausted, anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure who you really are beneath the roles you've learned to play. Many of the people I work with come to therapy carrying such feelings, and I help them find real change in thier lives.
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Photo of Malik Rezzi, Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Malik Rezzi
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Serves Area
My therapeutic approach has been influenced by integrative, humanistic, cognitive behavioural, applied behaviour analysis, meditation, mindfulness-based, psychodynamic therapy, ISTPD etc.
I was born and raised in multicultural societies all my life. Living in several different countries on 3 different continents (United Arab Emirates, Canada, Pakistan, Wales and England) has given me unique knowledge about culturally adapting therapy. It has also taught me to understand and work with many different kinds of people. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship with the client to create a safe and comfortable space to address and potentially alleviate psychological trauma. I have extensive experience adapting contemporary therapy and counselling and tailoring it to unique cultural nuances.
My therapeutic approach has been influenced by integrative, humanistic, cognitive behavioural, applied behaviour analysis, meditation, mindfulness-based, psychodynamic therapy, ISTPD etc.
I was born and raised in multicultural societies all my life. Living in several different countries on 3 different continents (United Arab Emirates, Canada, Pakistan, Wales and England) has given me unique knowledge about culturally adapting therapy. It has also taught me to understand and work with many different kinds of people. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship with the client to create a safe and comfortable space to address and potentially alleviate psychological trauma. I have extensive experience adapting contemporary therapy and counselling and tailoring it to unique cultural nuances.
020 3872 2437 View 020 3872 2437
Photo of Leanne Sumnall, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Leanne Sumnall
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Her psychodynamic techniques focus on attachment, empowering you to reshape your perception and lead a fulfilling life.
Do you find yourself grappling with relationship issues or navigating the complexities of having a narcissistic parent? Are you struggling to set boundaries and seeking clarity in your life and relationships? Imagine taking control of your life, shedding the weight of guilt, and envisioning healthy, fulfilling relationships? Imagine taking control of your life, shedding the weight of guilt, and envisioning healthy, fulfilling relationships. This is where Leanne steps in.
Her psychodynamic techniques focus on attachment, empowering you to reshape your perception and lead a fulfilling life.
Do you find yourself grappling with relationship issues or navigating the complexities of having a narcissistic parent? Are you struggling to set boundaries and seeking clarity in your life and relationships? Imagine taking control of your life, shedding the weight of guilt, and envisioning healthy, fulfilling relationships? Imagine taking control of your life, shedding the weight of guilt, and envisioning healthy, fulfilling relationships. This is where Leanne steps in.
01538 712574 View 01538 712574
Photo of Michelle Doubtfire, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Michelle Doubtfire
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
Welcome to my page finding a therapist can be a minefield! So I hope my page can help. I support people who are stuck feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious. This may be because of a traumatic event, challenging childhood, or day to day stressors. Maybe you feel anxious or overwhelmed and are finding it hard to deal with everyday life or you may be in a fight or flight response and trapped in a cycle of hyper vigilance and collapse which is affecting your mental and physical health?
Welcome to my page finding a therapist can be a minefield! So I hope my page can help. I support people who are stuck feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious. This may be because of a traumatic event, challenging childhood, or day to day stressors. Maybe you feel anxious or overwhelmed and are finding it hard to deal with everyday life or you may be in a fight or flight response and trapped in a cycle of hyper vigilance and collapse which is affecting your mental and physical health?
0161 570 0724 View 0161 570 0724
Photo of Bethan Lacey - Bethan Lacey Counselling, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Bethan Lacey Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I am qualified in Integrative Therapy, which includes CBT, Psychodynamic and person centred counselling.
Making a real human connection is powerful and it's how I love to work: meeting people like you exactly where you are at, and working compassionately with whatever you bring to therapy. As a qualified Integrative Counsellor I offer a warm, empathetic and non-judgmental space for you to explore what is going on at a pace that works for you. I draw on a variety of counselling techniques and styles to offer you bespoke support to overcome obstacles in your life and develop greater clarity. Maybe there's something you've been holding onto for a long time, or perhaps you just need to explore your thoughts safely. I'm here for you.
I am qualified in Integrative Therapy, which includes CBT, Psychodynamic and person centred counselling.
Making a real human connection is powerful and it's how I love to work: meeting people like you exactly where you are at, and working compassionately with whatever you bring to therapy. As a qualified Integrative Counsellor I offer a warm, empathetic and non-judgmental space for you to explore what is going on at a pace that works for you. I draw on a variety of counselling techniques and styles to offer you bespoke support to overcome obstacles in your life and develop greater clarity. Maybe there's something you've been holding onto for a long time, or perhaps you just need to explore your thoughts safely. I'm here for you.
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Photo of Carolyn Heffey - CP Counselling & Wellbeing Therapies- Supervisor , Counsellor, MBACP Accred
CP Counselling & Wellbeing Therapies- Supervisor
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
If your searching for a Counsellor then I understand you have reached a point in your life when you are ready to look at issues that are having an impact on you. Maybe causing you day to day difficulties and stopping you being able to live your life the way you want to. It can be a frightening process when you decide to reach out for help to look at issues that are causing emotional distress. Counselling is an approach to help you gain an understanding of the issues affecting you and work towards making positive changes in your life. You have taken the first step in seeking help simply by searching for a counsellor.
If your searching for a Counsellor then I understand you have reached a point in your life when you are ready to look at issues that are having an impact on you. Maybe causing you day to day difficulties and stopping you being able to live your life the way you want to. It can be a frightening process when you decide to reach out for help to look at issues that are causing emotional distress. Counselling is an approach to help you gain an understanding of the issues affecting you and work towards making positive changes in your life. You have taken the first step in seeking help simply by searching for a counsellor.
01928 244556 View 01928 244556
Photo of Melisa Adams, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Melisa Adams
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Online Only
We are told how important exercise is for our physical well-being, your mental health is no different. Mental health and physical health are interconnected. Stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest as physical symptoms. So, maintaining good mental health can positively influence physical health. Therapy changes lives and for that reason, if you are unhappy, stressed, and not sure what to do, you need to remember that life is short, and you deserve to live the life you want. Put yourself first and do what makes you happy! I will help you become your own therapist, providing you with healthy tools and support tailored for you.
We are told how important exercise is for our physical well-being, your mental health is no different. Mental health and physical health are interconnected. Stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest as physical symptoms. So, maintaining good mental health can positively influence physical health. Therapy changes lives and for that reason, if you are unhappy, stressed, and not sure what to do, you need to remember that life is short, and you deserve to live the life you want. Put yourself first and do what makes you happy! I will help you become your own therapist, providing you with healthy tools and support tailored for you.
01302 490114 View 01302 490114
Photo of Elaine June DEVLIN - EJD Counselling, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
EJD Counselling
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Pet Bereavement. Are you struggling with grief and loss, feeling isolated, or lonely after the passing of a loved pet? These feelings can be overwhelming; it can be one of the most painful times in your life. My name is Elaine. There are things that you can try and I will help you. I am an experienced Pet Bereavement and Integrative Counsellor. I offer you a safe, warm non-judgemental space where you can experience the magic of being fully heard, understood, and accepted as you. By sharing your story, together, we can explore and understand your feelings and learn to overcome the barriers which are limiting your happiness.
Pet Bereavement. Are you struggling with grief and loss, feeling isolated, or lonely after the passing of a loved pet? These feelings can be overwhelming; it can be one of the most painful times in your life. My name is Elaine. There are things that you can try and I will help you. I am an experienced Pet Bereavement and Integrative Counsellor. I offer you a safe, warm non-judgemental space where you can experience the magic of being fully heard, understood, and accepted as you. By sharing your story, together, we can explore and understand your feelings and learn to overcome the barriers which are limiting your happiness.
01925 906958 View 01925 906958
Photo of Peter Craig Dinsmore, Psychotherapist, BACP
Peter Craig Dinsmore
Psychotherapist, BACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a very experienced and professional therapist with over twelve thousand client contact hours behind me in individual, couples and group work. I feel my experience coupled with my life experiences makes me the person and the therapist I am today. My training in the person-centred approach (three years) and in Transactional Analysis (seven years) together with continuing professional and personal development and supervision give me a strong theoretical and experiential focus to bring to my client work. I work very much in a relational way (research indicates that the therapeutic relationship is key to positive therapy outcomes)
I am a very experienced and professional therapist with over twelve thousand client contact hours behind me in individual, couples and group work. I feel my experience coupled with my life experiences makes me the person and the therapist I am today. My training in the person-centred approach (three years) and in Transactional Analysis (seven years) together with continuing professional and personal development and supervision give me a strong theoretical and experiential focus to bring to my client work. I work very much in a relational way (research indicates that the therapeutic relationship is key to positive therapy outcomes)
0151 541 2512 View 0151 541 2512
Photo of Francesca Sciandra, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Francesca Sciandra
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Serves Area
I offer a warm, grounded, relational approach to individual and couples therapy, integrating psychodynamic work, attachment theory, and emotionally focused therapy.
Even when you’re thoughtful and self-aware, certain patterns can continue to shape your relationships in ways that don’t feel good. You may find yourself cycling through the same reactions, fears, or dynamics, leading to conflict, distance, or not feeling fully met. You might be carrying pain from childhood, navigating stress or anxiety, or facing challenges around intimacy or sexuality. You’re seeking more than insight—you want real change. Ultimately, you want relationships where you feel emotionally secure, connected, and confident.
I offer a warm, grounded, relational approach to individual and couples therapy, integrating psychodynamic work, attachment theory, and emotionally focused therapy.
Even when you’re thoughtful and self-aware, certain patterns can continue to shape your relationships in ways that don’t feel good. You may find yourself cycling through the same reactions, fears, or dynamics, leading to conflict, distance, or not feeling fully met. You might be carrying pain from childhood, navigating stress or anxiety, or facing challenges around intimacy or sexuality. You’re seeking more than insight—you want real change. Ultimately, you want relationships where you feel emotionally secure, connected, and confident.
020 3838 0861 View 020 3838 0861
Photo of Dr Ada Siu, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Dr Ada Siu
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an experienced psychologist in providing psychology therapies and behavioural change/health interventions to promote mental wellbeing and healthy behaviours. I worked in a wide range of psychology contexts including clinical mental health, forensics, health, communities, and universities. My work with the NHS specialises in chronic pain management and other long-term health conditions. Throughout my clinical practice, I specialise in working with people presenting difficulties in mental health and physical health, as well as in major life adjustments/transitions (e.g. bereavement, relationships, settling in a new environment).
I am an experienced psychologist in providing psychology therapies and behavioural change/health interventions to promote mental wellbeing and healthy behaviours. I worked in a wide range of psychology contexts including clinical mental health, forensics, health, communities, and universities. My work with the NHS specialises in chronic pain management and other long-term health conditions. Throughout my clinical practice, I specialise in working with people presenting difficulties in mental health and physical health, as well as in major life adjustments/transitions (e.g. bereavement, relationships, settling in a new environment).
020 3910 8453 View 020 3910 8453
Photo of Elizabeth Akers, Counsellor, MBACP
Elizabeth Akers
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
My practice combines person-centred, psychodynamic, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)techniques – allowing me to tailor our sessions to your unique needs Many people describe me as a warm and kind person who helps them feel safe, visible, and secure.
"Your feelings matter deeply. I’m here with you, and you don’t have to face any of this alone. We’ll move slowly, with warmth and care, and explore whatever you’re ready to share in a way that feels safe and supportive.”
My practice combines person-centred, psychodynamic, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)techniques – allowing me to tailor our sessions to your unique needs Many people describe me as a warm and kind person who helps them feel safe, visible, and secure.
"Your feelings matter deeply. I’m here with you, and you don’t have to face any of this alone. We’ll move slowly, with warmth and care, and explore whatever you’re ready to share in a way that feels safe and supportive.”
0151 453 5206 View 0151 453 5206
Photo of Anthony Naylor, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Anthony Naylor
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Compassionate Counselling for Healing Growth & Self-Discovery. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support takes real courage. As a qualified and experienced Integrative Counsellor, Sex Addiction Therapist, and Meditation Teacher, I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and integrative, drawing from different therapeutic modalities because one size doesn’t fit all. Together, we’ll work towards greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and practical tools for change.
Compassionate Counselling for Healing Growth & Self-Discovery. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support takes real courage. As a qualified and experienced Integrative Counsellor, Sex Addiction Therapist, and Meditation Teacher, I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and integrative, drawing from different therapeutic modalities because one size doesn’t fit all. Together, we’ll work towards greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and practical tools for change.
01884 212129 View 01884 212129
Psychodynamic Counsellors
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.