Leoni McRobert

My approach:

I have a background in Family and Couples therapy, but more recently I trained in both Person-Centred and Psychodynamic therapy at Edinburgh University. Although my practice is inevitably influenced by all 3 approaches, I consider myself a psychodynamic practitioner. This is primarily because of my deep belief in the unconscious, and the importance of our inner life. I believe the past affects our present as it shapes our internal world and it is through exploring this world - our thoughts, anxieties, feelings, fears, defences and assumptions, that we can understand and change how we relate to ourselves and to others. Therapy can help you connect to your internal experience, not only giving you a deeper understanding of what is happening inside but also in your relationships with others. It involves a closer look at the ideas that are deeply embedded within us, how we internalise the words of others, and how we see ourselves within our relationships.

Working in the family and couples therapy field, has also given me a profound insight into family dynamics and how these can shape who we are and impact how we relate to others. I have ample experience working with individuals, families, and couples from diverse backgrounds and have a deep understanding of different cultures and religions and how these differences may affect people in relationships. Furthermore, as a bilingual and mixed cultured individual myself, I am aware of the role language and culture play in shaping who we are.

How I work:

I work in a mindful way, facilitating a connection between the, often disconnected, mind and body. I find that our anxiety tends to come from conflicting parts within ourselves. By bringing more awareness to these parts, I can help you make sense of your feelings, which can then give us a clearer understanding of what you need. We all have defences protecting us against painful experiences, which are often unconscious but through the therapeutic relationship, they can be brought into consciousness to facilitate a greater awareness of self. By understanding and letting go of our defences we can find more meaningful connection with ourselves and others. I have witnessed how therapy brings clients into deeper contact with their authentic self, which often encourages them to make changes that better suit their current needs.

In my experience, the counselling relationship is a collaborative relationship mutually shaped by both client and therapist. Therapy can be a unique experience which can mend the wounds from past relationships. It is often through relationships that pain is caused, and just as relationships can be damaging, they can also be healing. This is how I see the counselling relationship - a relationship through which past pain can be explored, heard and healed.

Deciding to come to therapy is a big step and can feel very vulnerable. I appreciate this and recognise the importance of the therapist being the right match for you. Change can feel scary and is not straightforward, but it can occur when you are able to experience yourself more fully in the presence of the other’s empathy. I have witnessed both within myself and in my clients, how much growth and self-acceptance can happen in this environment. I believe I offer a warm empathic space where we can explore the things you feel are holding you back from living a more enriching life.

What to expect:

The first session is an opportunity for us to meet and see if we would like to work together. During this session you can tell me what you are struggling with and what you are hoping to gain from therapy.

Sessions last 50 minutes and we would normally meet on a weekly basis  at the same time/day.

I offer both long and short term counselling.

Short term counselling is more solution focused and consists of 7 sessions. Should you decide at the end of the 7 sessions that you would like to continue into long term counselling this could be arranged.

£50 for individual therapy

£60 for couples therapy

£45 for students