About Debra Thorpe Counselling
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I am a fully qualified and insured Psychodynamic Therapist, and a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy).
I completed my training in Psychodynamic Counselling at the highly regarded Leicester Centre for Psychodynamic Counselling where I received a distinction for my Diploma.
I have completed additional CPD spanning 4 days in working with Trauma and working somatically within a Psychodynamic framework through the Tavistock Foundation. I believe in working with the nervous system and body to get to unconscious trauma that it may be difficult to put into spoken words.
I have a particular interest in the impact that Perimenopause and Menopause can have on women's mental health and how counselling can support this.
Before training as a therapist, my background was in education and careers work with young people. This experience has given me a strong understanding of the challenges people face at different stages of life, and a genuine commitment to supporting personal growth and change.
I am also a level 6 Qualified Careers Advisor and hold a BA (Hons) Degree.
How can Psychodynamic Counselling help?
Psychodynamic counselling is a form of talking therapy that focuses on exploring the deeper patterns, emotions, and experiences that shape who we are. It is based on the understanding that our past relationships and experiences continue to influence how we think, feel, and behave in the present, often outside of our conscious awareness.
In sessions, we work together to bring these underlying patterns into the open, so you can better understand yourself, your relationships, and the feelings that may feel confusing or overwhelming. This process often allows lasting change at a deeper level, rather than only managing surface-level symptoms.
My aim is to offer a space where you feel heard, understood, and accepted. Sessions are warm and non-judgemental, and I bring an authentic and genuine presence to the work. Many people describe this as feeling “held”, a safe and steady place to bring whatever is on your mind.
At the same time, part of my role is to gently notice and explore the ways we sometimes protect ourselves from difficult feelings. I may invite you to reflect on these defences, not in a critical way, but to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself.
I believe that counselling works best when it balances support with gentle challenge. My intention is always to work alongside you, at your pace, in a way that feels safe and collaborative.