Dr Aditi Sharma

I believe everyone can have the challenges that are unique to them. My approach is to create a warm and welcoming space for you to discuss your difficult experiences comfortably and confidentially. I am committed to an anti-oppressive, all-inclusive, evidence-based, and ethical practice that fosters safety and empowerment. I endeavour to incorporate strategies that honours your individuality and background.

I have eight years of experience within the NHS and third sector charities such as Rape and Sexual abuse support centre (RASASC), Place2Be and Lewisham Refugee and Migrant Network (LRMN). During this time, I have trained and worked using range of approaches, working holistically with individuals and groups to inform, support and transform the physical and psychological effects of Trauma, PTSD, and issues relating to anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares/ night terrors, sleep paralysis, dissociation, relational problems or family issues, attachment problems, mood or emotional difficulties and somatic symptomology. In addition to my private practice, I also work as a Specialist Counselling Psychologist in one of the secondary mental health settings within the NHS. 

I recognize that seeking help can at times feel difficult. It takes courage to speak about painful experiences. I offer a warm and welcoming environment to ensure you feel comfortable doing so. We will work together to develop a shared understanding of your difficulties. I understand that it is not always easy to know or describe our distress. And, sometimes words can be inadequate to convey the meaning behind our experiences. So, I welcome different modes of expression in therapy, such as art, music, or objects. 

My personal Journey:

I have attended therapy for many years, initially as a requirement for my doctoral course, then continued it for many years for further insight and deeper healing. I understand how therapy can be anxiety provoking and triggering sometimes. Being on the other side of the chair has taught me humility and respect for different perspectives and has motivated me to take role of a guide, not an expert, who offers help to enhance understanding with curiosity and openness.

I am also a student of yoga for over thirty years. I am an avid practitioner of self-hypnosis and meditation which helps me to cope with the demands of my personal and professional life. I recently attended a transformative 10-day silent meditation retreat which has also taught me the value of experiential self awareness which is difficult to grasp sometimes solely with intellectual and emotional exchanges within talking therapies. As Neuroscience confirms the neuroplasticity of the brain and the positive impact of mindfulness and meditation in moving our mind from chaos to wholeness, I can speak now from my experience of the retreat that a regular practice of meditation can be helpful in raising self awareness, improving connection with self and others, and regain balance and equanimity within the embodied mind.

I regularly incorporate these learnings and understandings in my clinical work as and when necessary. 

I offer 15-minute free telephone /video consultation. Therapy sessions are online at present.