Evis Read

My main role before becoming a therapist was focused on problem solving and it gave me a great sense of purpose. But I was always drawn towards the emotional rather than practical aspects of the work. I realised that being able to console and be with someone with problems that couldn’t be solved, was even more meaningful to me. Empowering people to make difficult decisions, or accept difficult news, was the most fulfilling part of my job.

I trained at the University of East London and I hold a BACP accredited Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. The training was informed by recent research. At the heart of everything is the client and their wishes for therapy, not for the therapist to impose their style of work.

Before starting my private practice, I was a therapist in various settings including local charities supporting family carers, and children and their families. This meant that clients were from all walks of life, ages with complex mental health needs.

Working in community mental health provision, with limited funding, has influenced the way I practice. I carry out an in depth assessment at the start and review progress with clients every six sessions. I ask for feedback and change how I work based on what my clients say. It is a transparent way of working that is mindful that therapy is expensive. For many people time and resources are limited.

Successful integrative therapy for me is when the client has integrated the learning from therapy and is able to prioritise their wellbeing. Witnessing children, adults and elderly clients achieve this success, has been a privilege.