About Me
Hello, I’m Sarah, a BABCP Accredited Therapist.
With more than 30 years’ experience in the field of mental health, I combine compassionate insight with evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) to help you become the strongest, happiest, most resilient version of yourself.
I work with people experiencing psychological distress for various reasons. People who want to understand where they are, why they’re struggling, and how to move forward.
Common problems I see in my therapy room include anxiety, panic, overthinking, excessive worry, depression, and burnout. I also support people dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress (PTSD).
Whatever brings you to therapy, I give you space to slow down, reflect and find clarity. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and how they’ve shaped you – safely and without judgment – so you can start building a life that’s more aligned with your goals and values.
My Story (and What It Means for You)
I’ve always been fascinated by the human mind. How we work, who we are, and why we behave the way we do. For me, psychology is endlessly compelling because it holds the key to understanding ourselves and others more deeply.
I started my career in nursing because I wanted to help people in their most vulnerable moments. I loved it, but over time working in the NHS became frustrating. I faced constant constraints, from limited session numbers and long waiting lists to budget restrictions and an inadequate one-size-fits-all approach that didn’t reflect the individuality of the people I was supporting. I firmly believed therapy should be tailored, and people deserve choice. I still do!
I also wanted to focus on working with clients who were ready to engage and invested in building a meaningful, collaborative relationship over time. I wanted the freedom to choose specialist training that aligned with my values and to develop skills in areas that felt powerful and relevant, such as EMDR and Compassion-Focused Therapy.
Building my private practice allowed me to do all these things and more. I’ve created a safe space rooted in compassion, clarity, and flexibility, both for my clients and me. I’ve also been able to shape a work life with a sense of balance I couldn’t find elsewhere. It’s this, along with the meaningful work I do with my clients, that keeps me committed to this path.
My Values
Like many people drawn to this work, I’ve faced my own struggles. Thankfully, I’ve always had a strong drive to grow through life’s challenges, emerging on the other side with more understanding, more strength, and a clear sense of purpose. This is why I believe the difficulties we face are an opportunity for insight and growth.
I also believe in the power of compassion – not just as something soft or comforting, but as a strength. The kind of strength that empowers you to support yourself in more positive ways, navigate challenges, and make meaningful changes in your life.
I’m committed to working with you as a whole person. Rather than reducing someone to a diagnosis or symptoms, I hold in mind their context, background, and history. Their strengths, weaknesses, and the things they care about.
I never assume I know what’s best for someone. Therapy is a collaborative process. I bring clinical experience and evidence-based approaches, but you are the expert in your own life. We’ll figure out what’s needed, together.
I value working with curiosity rather than judgement. When we’re willing to explore our thoughts, feelings and behaviours with interest and understanding, we open the door to real insight and change.
If we want these changes to stick, they need to be sustainable and grounded in everyday life. I don’t believe in quick fixes. Instead, I support people in developing tools and strategies they can lean on long after therapy ends.
My Qualifications & Accreditations
- Post Graduate Certificate in Compassion Focused Therapy | 2016 | Derby University
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (Level 1, 2 and 3) | 2013 | EMDR Masterclass
- Diploma in Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy | 2011 | Salford Cognitive Therapy, Manchester University
- BSc in Psychosocial Interventions | 2008 | Manchester University
- Diploma in Professional Nursing, RMN | 2000 | Manchester University
My experience combines medical knowledge with academic qualifications. I’m a BABCP accredited CBT therapist which means my practice receives regular supervision. I’m also required to undertake ongoing training in Psychology. The field of mental health is constantly evolving and improving, so it’s vital I remain up to date with new developments.
I’ve also trained with Professor Paul Gilbert, founder of Compassion Focused Therapy or CFT. Developed for people who struggle with high levels of shame and criticism, CFT has been proven to enhance CBT by softening our critical inner world and improving our relationship with ourselves.
I continue to work with profesor Paul Gilbert on his compassion focused therapy diploma course where I supervise his students all over the world.
Support for Therapists in Private Practice
Alongside my clinical work, I’m a published author who offers coaching, courses and community for other therapists in private practice, empowering them to build a thriving business while also living a life they love.
About Me
Outside of work, the things that bring me joy are often the simplest. I love spending time outdoors, especially walking on the beach. I’m from North Wales originally, and I still feel most at home when I’m by the coast.
My two dogs are a big part of my life. They keep me grounded and always make me smile. I enjoy cooking (gluten-free as I have coeliac disease) and sharing food with friends. Travel also lights me up. There’s something very nourishing about stepping away from your usual routine and seeing the world with fresh eyes.
Come Home to Yourself
Whether you’re seeking therapy online or in-person at my private practice in Wilmslow, Cheshire, the decision to work with me should feel like coming home. Now that you’re ready to take the first step towards improving your mental health, I’d like to welcome you into the inclusive, judgement-free space I’ve created – a space where you’ll feel safe and supported.
Get In touch
I provide online appointments and face-to-face therapy in Wilmslow, Cheshire. Each session lasts for 1 hour and is priced at £150. I work Tuesday afternoons online and 9am - 6pm Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in the clinic where I can see you face to-face or on zoom.
To make an enquiry or book a session, please complete the contact form below, detailing your preferred days and times for your session.
Please note, I'm not registered to see AxA, Aviva or Vitality health clients.