Maria Leahy:

Trainee Psychodynamic Counsellor & Psychotherapist (BACP student member)

My name is Maria Leahy. I am a trainee psychodynamic counsellor and psychotherapist at HQ Therapy Rooms in Haggerston, where I provide low-cost counselling sessions to adult clients.

Whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, lonely or stuck, are facing challenges in your personal or professional life, or have a loss to process or a difficult decision to make, therapy can help.

I can provide you with a supportive, judgement-free space where we can explore your reason for coming to therapy, while you gain a deeper understanding of who you are as a person.

You might feel nervous about starting therapy, particularly if you aren’t used to speaking about challenging emotions.

Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a therapist is different to discussing them with your friends or family.

You’ll have the freedom to tease out messy or complicated ideas in your sessions, without having to fear that doing so might negatively impact your personal relationships.

In this way, engaging in therapy can help you unlock new ways of thinking and strengthen your overall sense of self.

Approach
I work from a psychodynamic perspective, which involves thinking about how the past influences the present, reflecting on unconscious psychological processes and exploring patterns of behaviour. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is an important aspect of this approach.

Human beings and their experiences are as unique as they are complex. There is no right or wrong answer in this form of talking therapy. Instead, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on your story and how you relate to yourself and others.

I’ll encourage you to speak freely about whatever is on your mind. Your time in therapy is yours to use; I will work with you at your pace.

Practicalities
I work with clients on a long or short-term basis, depending on their individual circumstances and needs. I am currently available for in-person sessions between 10 am and 1 pm on Sundays at HQ Therapy Rooms’ Haggerston location, which is just one minute’s walk from Haggerston station.

My background
I am currently studying for an MSc in Psychodynamic Counselling & Psychotherapy at the Birkbeck University of London. This course is accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

Prior to starting my Masters, I completed Birkbeck’s Graduate Certificate in Psychodynamic Practice programme and City Lit’s Introduction to Counselling Skills training.

I also have a BA in English & Psychological Studies from the National University of Ireland, Galway.

As a student member of the BACP, I work within the BACP’s ethical framework and abide by its professional code of conduct. This includes treating any information shared in therapy with respect and maintaining the strictest confidence.

Before joining HQ Therapy Rooms, I was a volunteer at the London-based suicide prevention charity The Listening Place.