A holistic approach…

Hello, my name is Michaela Stansfield, a.k.a. The Women’s Therapist. Thinking of starting therapy can be a daunting experience. I provide a safe, relaxed and supportive space in which to explore whatever you wish, at your own pace.

As an integrative counsellor I can draw from a number of modalities and theories to best support you. In particular, my approach is informed by polyvagal theory, bringing in the lens of your nervous system, as…

“If you could think your way out of this, you would have done so already” - Deb Dana

So often we can feel stuck in survival mode or on auto-pilot and disconnected from our true selves. The notion of ‘you need to feel it to heal it’ informs my practice, and I encourage clients to raise self-awareness and self-acceptance, as only then change is possible.

I work exclusively with those who identify as women, in particular mums. Do you feel unheard, overwhelmed, a loss of self or confidence, stuck in unhelpful coping mechanisms or patterns? Do you feel like your worth is tied to pleasing others, or how useful or perfect you can be? Do you feel like your past is impacting on your present? Is your inner critic running the show?

I am not a therapist who is just going to sit there and nod. Whilst I will be alongside you as you decide where we go, where I feel it could be of benefit I incorporate simple psychoeducation and regulating tools into my practice as I believe knowledge is power. It’s my aim to empower you as I know you have the answers you need within you, even if they’re hard to hear right now. I will encourage you to tune into your intuition that may have been silenced or lost touch with.

I offer a free, no obligation 20 minute online consultation for us to meet and better understand your needs. You may then wish to have a few sessions to see if I’m the right fit for you and your therapy goals. I work with clients weekly or fortnightly, from 6 sessions to several years…and you are always in the driving seat!