Ellen Spafford
Psychotherapist
I am an accredited trauma-informed Psychotherapist working in Brighton and Eastbourne. I have a wide breadth of experience in various settings working with both groups and individuals. I use a Systemic Psychotherapy approach. I also specialise in EMDR and Art Psychotherapy.
I work with individuals resolving many types of difficulties, including but not limited to;
living with a chronic illness, PTSD, CPTSD, relationship difficulties, anxiety, life limiting interpersonal struggles, intimacy and low self esteem, and stress management.
Many of my clients are neurodiverse, including individuals with ADHD or Autism.
My approach is direct, with empathy and compassion. The root of my therapy practice is a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship. I work together with clients to establish goals, challenge patterns and for some, uncover how early experiences may shape present day struggles.
Every session is client led, with the knowledge that the client is the expert on their own life.
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Psychotherapy Qualifications
My qualifications include; AFT accredited degree in Systemic Psychotherapy, MA in Art Psychotherapy with HCPC accreditation and an EMDR qualification from the EMDR Centre London.
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Systemic Psychotherapy
Systemic Psychotherapy focuses on relationships. This therapy focuses on the idea, that we are all part of relationships; even if we present for therapy as individuals. We are all parts of communities and networks.
This type of therapy explores the context surrounding an individual's distress, rather than only focussing entirely a client's thoughts and feelings. It explores patterns in behaviour and communication that can result in the client feeling 'stuck'. It can be used with individuals, couples or family psychotherapy. This therapy uses compassion, empathy and a collaborative approach.
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EMDR (Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing)
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EMDR Is an evidence based trauma treatment used by the NHS and private settings. It is recognised by the World Health Organisation and the National Institution for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). It is led by an experienced trained psychotherapist to help a client reprocess traumatic events through bilateral stimulation of the brain, by means of eye movement or tapping.
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Art Psychotherapy
Art Therapists are psychodynamically trained professionals, providing therapy using the optional use of art materials to create images, or creative metaphors to help reflect on and to express thoughts and feelings. We are governed by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC), and it is a legal requirement to be registered before practicing anywhere in the UK.
Like all forms of therapy, it is important to find a therapist who is right for you, and a way of working that fits. Art therapy, like many forms of therapy is about the therapeutic relationship.
There is no need to have any form of artistic experience, and no aesthetic judgements are made in sessions. Art therapy tools can range from talking, metaphors, visualisation and art materials.
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Individual sessions cost £75 per 60 minutes
