Psychotherapy
About me
I’m an Existential psychotherapist trained at an accredited university, with additional training in sexology. My work is rooted in trauma theory, meaning I pay close attention to how past experiences, attachment patterns and the nervous system shape the difficulties people bring to therapy. This understanding sits at the heart of how I make sense of emotional distress, relationships, and the patterns we repeat without meaning to.
I work integratively, drawing from a range of approaches so therapy is tailored to you, rather than fitting you into one model. Trauma theory, parts work and relational depth guide much of what I do, helping clients understand why they feel the way they do and how different parts of themselves have developed to protect, soothe or cope.
My style is relational, meaning I invite all parts of you into the therapy space. Many clients find they can talk with me about things they’ve never shared before.
This is because I work hard to create an environment of acceptance, curiosity and compassion. I am genuinely interested in the people I work with; I use gentle exploration to help clients develop insight into their emotions, behaviours and internal world.
I have experience in sexual health settings, working with LGBTQ+ clients, supporting survivors of abuse, and working with compulsive sexual behaviour (CSB). My background in sexology and trauma theory allows me to support clients with a wide range of concerns around sexuality, identity, shame and intimacy.
Therapy with me is steady, grounded and collaborative. We work at a pace that feels safe, exploring how your past has shaped you and helping you build the internal resources to move forward with clarity, confidence and greater connection to yourself.
Therapy isn't a quick fix - it does require commitment and a readiness. But starting the process can ease your distress as you keep coming back and engaging. We can look at how many sessions you would like to work within or keep it open ended. Please feel free to get in touch with any questions.
When life feels stuck
Many people come to therapy when they feel caught in repeating patterns or weighed down by anxiety, low mood, or dissatisfaction with life. It may show up as difficulties in relationships, flashbacks from past experiences, or simply a sense of emptiness and lack of purpose.
Therapy can help you make sense of what’s happening and begin to move toward a life that feels richer and more meaningful.
What to expect in therapy
Our first sessions are an assessment stage — a chance for us to get to know each other and to clarify what you want from therapy. Some people choose short-term work on a specific issue, while others prefer longer-term therapy that explores the deeper roots of their struggles.
This is your space. You can take things at your own pace, bringing whatever feels most important.
My approach
My way of working is compassionate and relational. I see people as made up of many different parts, each carrying their own story. Therapy invites these parts to be seen and understood, rather than pushed away.
I draw on a range of therapeutic models and evidence-based methods, always tailoring the work to you. At the heart of my approach is integration, helping you to feel calmer, more connected, and more able to live in line with your true self.
Areas I can help with but are not limited to
People come to me for help a wide range of issues/presentations. Here are some of the more common difficulties that I can help with:
Trauma & Abuse — childhood trauma, complex PTSD, neglect, emotional abuse, sexual abuse
Compulsive Behaviours & Sexuality — compulsive sexual behaviour (CSB), porn use, affairs, sexual shame, out-of-control sexual behaviour
Anxiety & Low Mood — panic, intrusive thoughts, overwhelm, depression, hopelessness
Self-Worth & Identity — shame, guilt, low self-esteem, inner critic, questions of belonging
Relationships & Attachment — intimacy difficulties, trust issues, boundaries, patterns of conflict or avoidance
Stress & Coping — work stress, burnout, difficulty regulating emotions, using alcohol/food/sex as coping mechanisms
Neurodivergence — supporting autistic and ADHD clients, or those who wonder if they may be neurodivergent, to better understand themselves and their needs
Sexuality & LGBTQ+ — exploring sexual orientation, coming out, navigating identity and relationships in the context of diverse sexualities and genders
Online, Telephone and Face to face sessions.
For the cost of sessions please send an email enquiry
Email me at [email protected]
Face to face sessions are in Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire, also within easy access of Cheshire - Crewe, Nantwich, Sandbach, Winsford, Middlewich
I offer online sessions for clients nationwide via Zoom. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about how online therapy works.
Contact Me
©Samantha Oliver Psychotherapy
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