Louise Maczka

Name: Louise Maczka
Address: Westcliff-On-Sea, Essex, SS0, GB
Telephone: +447418627600
Price range: £80.00 per session

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MSc, PGDip CBT, BABCP Accredited, EMDR Trained Therapist

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Westcliff-On-Sea, Essex, SS0

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07418 627 600 07418 627 600

About me

Beginning therapy can feel overwhelming, even knowing where to start can be a challenge. Finding someone you feel comfortable with, understanding different therapy approaches, and taking that first step toward support can stir up a lot of uncertainty. My aim is to make that process feel as safe, gentle, and straightforward as possible.

I’m a warm, grounded, and collaborative CBT and EMDR therapist who genuinely cares about the people I work with. I value stability, compassion, and connection, and I bring these qualities into every session. I’m also someone who believes in authenticity. I’m not afraid to be human in the room, and I’ve found that this openness often helps others feel safe enough to do the same.

In our sessions, I take time to understand your experiences, both past and present, so we can work together to identify what feels most important for you right now. I create space for reflection, but also for practical tools and strategies that can help you navigate whatever challenges you’re facing. I adapt my approach for long‑term health conditions and neurodiversity needs, ensuring therapy feels accessible and tailored to you.

If you’re considering working with me, the first step is to send an email. From there, we can arrange a brief call to talk through what you’re looking for, explore which therapy options might suit you best, and get a sense of whether we feel like a good fit. If it feels right for you, we can then arrange your first session together.

Outside of my professional life, I’m someone who thrives on connection, values friendships deeply, and has a soft spot for animals. These parts of me shape the warmth and humanity I bring into my work.

Training, qualifications & experience

2009 – BA in Psychology at the University of Essex.
2010 – Certification Professional Practitioner in Hypnotherapy with the Essex Institute for Clinical Hypnosis.
2011 – MSc in Forensic Psychology at the University of Kent.
2015 – Postgraduate Certificate Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (Low Intensity CBT) at the University of Essex.
2019 - Systems Training for Emotion Predictability and Problem Solving (STEPPS) at Essex Partnership University Trust.
2020 - Supporting Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse Training Programme and Practical Skills Training with NAPAC.
2020/2021 – Postgraduate Diploma in Evidence Based CBT (IAPT High Intensity) at the University of East Anglia.
2021 - Augmented Depression Therapy (ADepT) Workshop. Learning How to Feel Good: How to Build Positivity in Depressed Clients with CBT with the University of Exeter.
2021/2024 - Gender Diversity Training with Midlands Partnership Foundation Trust.
2022 - Cultural Competency Training with University College London.
2021/2022 - Evidence Based High Intensity CBT for Long Term Health Conditions with the University of East Anglia.
2023 - Adapting CBT for Depression and Anxiety to Work with Individuals with Comorbid Personality Difficulties with the University of Exeter.
2023 - EMDR Certification at EMDR Europe Accredited Training.
2023/2024 - High Intensity NHS Talking Therapies Supervision Course at the University of East Anglia.
2024 - The Practical Integration of Flash Technique within the EMDR Standard Protocol with Havens Psychological Services.
2025 – Trauma-Informed Leadership Training with Epione.

I began my career in mental health in 2010, working on inpatient wards, where I discovered a passion for supporting people through challenging and often vulnerable moments. I later worked in prisons, including a young offenders’ institute, where I further developed my ability to build trust and create a sense of safety in complex environments.

Since then, I’ve worked with a wide range of mental health difficulties, including depression, low self‑esteem, anxiety disorders (generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic, obsessive compulsive disorder, health anxiety, phobias), post-traumatic stress disorder, body dysmorphia, and general stress.

I currently work as a CBT and EMDR Psychotherapist within NHS Talking Therapies, where I also lead a team and support trainee therapists. I’ve also previously worked as a Senior CBT Therapist/ Trauma Specialist for the Police.

Alongside my core training, I have completed additional professional development in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness, which I integrate into my clinical practice.