Dr Nicole Burnham

I am a Chartered Counselling psychologist with over 15 years of experience working in mental health. I am also undertaking specialist training in psychosexual therapy which allows me to incorporate specific interventions to support those experiencing sexual difficulties. 

*Please note I am only taking referrals for individuals or couples seeking psychosexual therapy at present*

The kind of support and input that a person might need when they come to therapy will vary considerably. I do not therefore believe that one type of therapy fits all, and instead draw from a broad range of models to inform an individualised, integrative approach. I primarily draw from relational ways of working, but will incorporate cognitive behavioural and trauma informed interventions when needed.

Psychosexual therapy 

Psychosexual Therapy may in many ways feel similar to other talking therapies, but specialist training requires practitioners to have additional skills and knowledge that are specific to sexual functioning. Difficulties in our sexual lives are much more common than people think. However, for many people it can be a challenging topic to talk about. Psychosexual therapy can therefore provide an important space to have open and safe conversations. Sexual difficulties can arise at any time in our lives; some are short term, some long term and some specific to certain contexts or situations.

Common issues that people can present with include:

• A lack of sexual desire or interest
• A discrepancy in desire between partner(s)
• Difficulties getting or sustaining an erection
• Rapid or delayed ejaculation
• Pain during sex (such as dysperunia or vaginismus)
• Difficulties reaching orgasm
• Sexual phobias or aversions
• Fears around lack of sexual experience
• Compulsive sexual behaviours
• Sexual orientation questions

The early sessions will involve an assessment period where a number of questions are asked to gain an understanding of the presenting issues and how they have developed. This would then guide a treatment plan for subsequent sessions. During this process it will also be important to identify if medical referrals are needed such as to a GP.

Therapy sessions might include the continued exploration and understanding of difficulties, increasing confidence and skills around communication, sharing of self-help tools and sexual education, and the recommendation of behavioural exercises to do at home.

I value gender, sexuality and relationship diversity, welcoming those from LGBTQIA communities, those in non-monogamous relationships as well as those exploring kink and other sexual preferences.

I offer both short-term, brief therapy (between 6-12 sessions), as well as longer term, open-ended therapy. Therapy sessions last 50 minutes and typically happen at the same time on a weekly basis. I am happy to discuss other options if this does not work for you however.

Fees can be paid bank transfer on a weekly or monthly basis. 

I am registered with most of the main insurance companies. Please contact me for more information and check with your provider if you are covered for psychological therapy.