why people come to therapy
Most people do not begin psychotherapy or relationship counselling because of one sudden event. More often, emotions become harder to manage, or a relationship begins to feel tense, distant, or stuck. You might find yourself reacting more strongly than you intend to, shutting down, avoiding difficult conversations, or walking on eggshells. At home or at work, the same arguments or misunderstandings may repeat without resolution.
When strain builds over time, it can affect both self-esteem and close relationships. Some people experience anxiety, low mood, or emotional numbness. Others struggle with self-criticism, trust issues, or coping behaviours that once helped but are now creating further difficulty, including self-harm.
Life transitions can bring these patterns into sharper focus. A move, separation, new baby, bereavement, illness, or change in work can highlight longstanding communication difficulties or relationship dynamics. You may notice similar patterns repeating across different relationships, or feel that earlier experiences still influence how safe, close, or understood you feel.
Difficulties in relationships or recurring conflict can often lead to anxiety, low mood, or emotional numbness. It's important to address self-critical thoughts or self-harm that may arise from the effects of past trauma or difficult experiences.
Many people find themselves feeling stuck in familiar patterns, particularly during life changes that feel hard to manage.
About Nicole
I am an integrative psychotherapist specialising in couples counselling and in working with adults in Worcester city centre and online. My approach is relational. I work with individuals who are struggling with intense emotions, relationship difficulties, or long-standing coping patterns that feel hard to change. I also support couples who are experiencing communication problems, recurring conflict, trust issues, or a sense of disconnection.
I am a UKCP-registered psychotherapist with over twenty years of experience in mental health services. I also have an extensive background as a Registered Mental Health Nurse. In addition, having worked with Relate UK for over five years, I've have substantial experience and qualifications in relationship counselling.
My training in integrative psychotherapy and relationship counselling allows me to work with complex emotional difficulties, trauma, and enduring patterns within relationships.
I offer a steady, non-judgemental space where we can explore what is happening for you, whether you are attending alone or as a couple. Therapy is collaborative and carefully paced, with a strong focus on safety, trust, and your individual experience.
Testimonials
Miss L -July 2024
Nicole is really approachable and provided a safe space for our sessions. As a mental health nurse, her non-judgemental approach helped me to open up and face difficult issues from my past. At times, the sessions were challenging, but Nicole’s calm temperament and good humour, combined with her expertise in integrated psychotherapy, meant I was able to leave feeling positive and hopeful.
I was initially scared of attending therapy, as I thought it was for 'other people.' However, Nicole’s manner and style quickly put me at ease, making the experience much more relatable, especially during our couples counselling sessions.
Miss W - April 2025
I saw Nicole for 12 months while I was separating from my husband and going through the divorce. She really listened and helped me to understand my anger and sadness, which allowed me to feel stronger throughout the whole process. Her approach, which included elements of integrated psychotherapy and insights from a mental health nurse, made a significant difference in my journey. I also appreciated the couples counselling aspect, which helped me navigate the emotional complexities of my situation.
Mr D - Sep 2023
Nicole, a skilled mental health nurse, has helped me to understand my anxiety and OCD. She does not judge and remains calm even when I am panicking. Talking with Nicole, who utilizes integrated psychotherapy techniques, has helped me to manage the things I was finding difficult with more confidence. Her approach has been especially beneficial, similar to the support one might find in couples counselling.
Exploring couples counselling can be an essential step for partners seeking to strengthen their relationship. By engaging in integrated psychotherapy, couples can address underlying issues with the guidance of a mental health nurse, who provides valuable support in navigating emotional challenges.