Sylvia Cowell

Hello, I'm a fully trained counselling psychotherapist and I offer private individual and relationship therapy on an ongoing or short-term basis.

I am trained in the Psychodynamic method, Psychosexual CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), Addictions Counselling and EMDR.  I  use an integration of these ideas to help you best.

It can be difficult to find a space to reflect and discuss the things that are on your mind or are difficult to think about. I offer a secure, non-judgemental, confidential environment, where together we can find that space for you.

I am very patient and understand that taking that first step towards counselling, and beginning to make changes, can be very difficult, and I'll do my very best to support you.

The therapy room is based in Hackney Central and there are several buses that stop nearby (106, 254, 276, 277, 38 55 and W15). Nearest Train - Overground Hackney Central.

I work with clients by offering an initial consultation to discuss their current concerns, what they hope to gain from counselling, and the options available in my practice that may best meet their needs. This allows us to consider together whether short-term or longer-term therapy would be most appropriate.

Following the initial consultation, sessions are usually held weekly and tailored to each individual or couple. My approach is collaborative and flexible, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural and other integrative methods as appropriate. The aim is to provide a thoughtful and structured therapeutic process that supports meaningful and lasting change.

The first session is an opportunity for us to begin exploring what has brought you to counselling and what you would like to gain from the process. You may wish to talk about current difficulties, concerns that have been present for some time, or experiences that feel hard to think about or put into words. There is no expectation to cover everything at once, and the session will proceed at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

We will also discuss what you are hoping to achieve from counselling and consider which approach might best support your goals. This may include talking about whether you are looking for short-term, focused work or a longer-term therapeutic process.

An important part of the first session is giving you space to decide whether you feel comfortable working with me. The therapeutic relationship is central to effective counselling, and it is important that you feel able to ask questions about how I work and to reflect on whether this feels like the right fit for you.

The first session also provides an opportunity to cover practical matters, such as session frequency, confidentiality and boundaries, so that you have a clear understanding of how the work would proceed should you decide to continue.

I am a Therapist in private practice and a Supervisor to counsellors and trainees. I will offer you a supportive space to reflect on our work with clients and develop your practice.  Supervision also provides you with an opportunity to consider alternative perspectives, leading to learning and personal development.

My supervision training is with the Centre for Supervision and Team Development (CTSD London).

Sessions can be monthly, fortnightly or weekly depending on your professional body guidelines or your needs.

I offer supervision to clients working in a variety of different settings.  I offer a safe space to be reflective regarding your practice as a practitioner and to support you in meeting the needs of your clients.  I also offer an opportunity to provide support for yourself and contribute to your own growth, learning and self-care.

The first session is an opportunity for us to explore your setting. Identify and clarify your client group, their needs and the impact on you as a practitioner.  We will also discuss how the supervision relationship will support and inform your work and development.