Lucy Shimmens

I offer both online sessions via Zoom and face-to-face sessions at The Greenhouse Therapy Rooms in Richmond, so you can choose the option that feels most comfortable and convenient for you. If you'd like to find out more about my availability, please don’t hesitate to contact me using the details provided. I’ll happily provide more information and help find a time that works for you.

I am a qualified UKCP accredited psychotherapist and have worked in a variety of settings, including private mental health services, charitable organisations, as well as the NHS. This broad range of experience has allowed me to support people through a wide spectrum of emotional difficulties. More specifically, I have experience of supporting adults presenting with issues which have included; a general sense that things are 'not right' with you, anxiety, low mood, grief and bereavement, experiences of emotional, physical and sexual abuse, family difficulties, relationship struggles, low self-worth, loneliness, life changes, parenting challenges, work-related stress, or feeling stuck or overwhelmed. I have also worked with people who have experienced trauma or suicidal thoughts.

Before becoming a psychotherapist, I studied psychology and sociology at undergraduate level, and spent several years working in finance and later in strategic roles within the civil service. During that time, I came to understand how stressful and overwhelming work can feel at times, balancing deadlines, responsibilities, and the everyday demands of life. I know how these pressures can spill over into your wellbeing and relationships, and this awareness continues to shape the way I meet you with empathy and understanding.

I’ve been working with clients since 2021 and began my private practice in 2023. These are some of the areas I have experience with in supporting clients: a general sense that things are 'not right' with you, anxiety, grief and loss, depression, emotional abuse, family conflict, hopelessness, life transitions, loneliness, low self-esteem, parenting, relationship difficulties, sexual abuse, social anxiety, stress, 'stuckness', suicidal thoughts, trauma, workplace issues.

Some people come to therapy with something specific they want to explore or untangle. Others arrive simply with a sense of unease or feeling stuck, unsure of where to begin. However you come, I’ll meet you with warmth, empathy, and care. Together, we’ll explore what’s going on for you, at a pace that feels safe and manageable.

At the heart of my work is a belief in the importance of the therapeutic relationship. When you feel heard, accepted, and not judged, something begins to shift. I offer a space that supports emotional and psychological safety, where you can be met just as you are. I’m mindful of how distressing or traumatic experiences can leave lasting marks on both body and mind, and I aim to be alongside you as we navigate what emerges.

Through our work, you may come to a deeper understanding of yourself, of long-standing patterns, emotional responses, and the impact of your past. With insight and self-awareness can come the possibility of change, healing, and new ways of being in the world.

In our first session, we’ll begin with a few practical details, such as your contact information, and a bit about your day-to-day context. We’ll also go over my therapy agreement, so you’re fully informed about key things like confidentiality, cancellations, and how I work. There will be space to talk about what’s brought you to therapy and what you might be hoping for. We can think together about how I might support you, and whether it feels right for us to continue. If you choose not to book further sessions, that’s absolutely okay. What matters most is that you feel comfortable and in control of the process.

Practical Details

I offer a free 20-minute initial phone or online conversation so we can talk about what you're looking for and whether it feels like a good fit. There’s no pressure to make a decision straight away. It’s important you feel comfortable.

Sessions are 50 minutes long and usually take place weekly, although I’m open to exploring a rhythm that works for you. I offer both short and long-term therapy, and we can review our work together at any point to reflect on how things are going and whether your needs have changed.

Contact me

If you're considering the possibility of working together, I’d love to hear from you. You can conatct me by email at hello@therapywithlucy.com or by phone at 07376191794. I will do my best to respond within 48 hours, and then suggest a time for a brief, 15/20-minute phone conversation which is free of charge. This provides us an opportunity to talk about what you're looking for and whether it feels like a good fit. There’s no pressure to make a decision straight away. It’s important you feel comfortable.