about me
Hi, I’m Ellen.
I am a qualified and experienced child & adolescent therapist who is passionate about helping young people find their voice and tell their own story by providing a safe, confidential counselling space without judgement.
In the transition from childhood to adulthood we encounter various challenges that require us to learn the delicate balance of understanding when we need to let go, and when we need to hold on. Challenges such as exploring our identity, coping with conflict or loss of friendships, changing family dynamics and managing social & academic pressures. These moments can be hard and so it is important to have the appropriate support and guidance.
I am a ‘child led - adult contained’ therapist which means I follow the needs, pace and direction set by my client whilst being responsible for providing a thoughtful and nurturing environment. Counselling is a chance for young people to see how they experience the world and how the world experiences them. It is learning how to identify, manage and communicate their needs and additionally be able to process feedback received from those around them.
I am a great fit for teenagers and families who value the importance of individual expression & exploration and want an empathetic therapist who understands the complexities of growing up.
core values & beliefs
connection
The foundation needed for a respectful and collaborative relationship.
Integrity
Working therapeutically based on communication, transparency and hope.
commitment
Offering consistent and reliable support through unstable times.
I have over 15 years of experience in the adolescent mental health sector, working with young people from a variety of backgrounds aged 5 to 18 years.
My wide range of experience includes being a special needs assistant for children struggling with school attendance and working in an independent special school with a therapeutic milieu as part of the clinical team. I also supported children and teenagers during their long-term inpatient admissions for eating disorders, somatising disorders and other emotional & behavioural disorders at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
In 2016 I qualified as a child & adolescent therapist and went on to work in leading independent schools, The Royal Ballet School and Surbiton High School. I joined The Soke (Wimbledon) as a consultant in 2024 working alongside a multidisciplinary team including psychiatrists, psychologists and psychotherapists.
Working with young people as they go through the more painful chapters of their adolescence has always been, and continues to be, a privilege and an honour that I take great care and sensitivity in.
experience & training
I initially gained a BSc (Hons) Psychology Undergraduate Degree via the University of Westminster and a Certificate in Counselling & Interpersonal Skills from the Metanoia Institute. This was followed by two Postgraduate Diplomas both awarded with merit; pre-clinical training at The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust and clinical training and qualification at the University of East London via Place2Be. As a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) I am committed in continuing my professional development and have undertaken additional training in childhood bereavement support, CBT management of self-harm and understanding complex privileged neglect.
