Geetika Rai
Psychotherapy and Counselling in NW1, London
Supporting deep self-understanding and change
About me
I am a qualified and accredited psychotherapist and counsellor working with adults in London (NW1).
Psychodynamic thinking is at the heart of my practice. This means the therapy seeks to get to the root of the problem rather than focus on surface symptoms. It involves exploring early experiences and developing a better understanding of unconscious motivations and repetitive patterns of relating.
My approach is to work according to each individual's specific concerns, aims and unique situation. My practice offers a space to be understood, and to explore different aspects of yourself with a view to gaining insights and achieving desired changes.
Talking to a therapist in a safe and confidential space allows a deeper understanding of yourself including how you relate to others and with the outside world. Therapy provides the opportunity to make sense of difficult experiences and feelings or persisting anxieties. This often brings clarity, relief and hope.
My Practice
How I work
Experience and Qualifications
Experience and Qualifications
Therapy with me would involve meeting (ideally in person) on a regular basis for sessions that last fifty minutes. I provide a reliable, confidential space which allows a chance to connect and develop a purposeful focus on whatever may have brought you to therapy.
My offer of psychodynamic therapy involves the consideration of deeply held and often less conscious patterns and thoughts. Together we work on making these more conscious, resulting in an understanding of why patterns, behaviours or unhelpful ways of thinking are repeated. An exploration of significant and adverse life experiences is a part of the process. Gradually a sense of clarity on the complexities that could be holding you back emerges, empowering you to move towards a more satisfying life.
I am interested in developing people’s ability to mentalise by applying Mentalisation Based Techniques. Mentalising well allows for a better understanding of our own perspectives as well as those of other people leading to more successful interactions and social relationships. Mentalisation has its origins in psychoanalysis and has a compelling evidence base.
Experience and Qualifications
Experience and Qualifications
Experience and Qualifications
Alongside my private practice, I work as an Adult Psychotherapist in a CNWL NHS Psychodynamic Psychotherapy service. I bring significant experience from my work within the NHS, where I have worked with adults (individually and within groups) with a wide range of difficulties in different clinical settings. I have experience of working in the volunteer sectors, particularly with university students and young adults. I have also provided mental health support at two prominent cancer charities.
I trained at the University of Oxford; where I completed the clinical 4-year Masters in Psychodynamic Practice programme with distinction. I am currently enrolled in a Mentalised Based Training programme at the Anna Freud Centre, UCL. I am registered as a psychodynamic psychotherapist with the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). I am also accredited with the UKCP (UK Council of Psychotherapy) and am a registered member of the BACP. I practice within the ethical framework and guidelines of these organisations; attending regular supervision and professional development programmes. I have full professional indemnity insurance. I also accept certain insurers including Aviva and AXA.
Prior to my clinical training, I completed master’s degrees in economics and management. I have a range of professional experience working for leading corporations.
Clinical Interests
My clinical interests include complex trauma, family and relationship issues and the intertwining of mental and physical health. I am passionate about making therapy more accessible and relevant across all social, cultural, economic backgrounds and across different presentations.
Some of the issues I have worked with in the past include:
- Anxiety and depression
- Feelings of emptiness
- Self-doubt and low self-esteem
- Relationship and family difficulties
- Sexual abuse
- Life transitions and decisions
- Self-destructive behaviour patterns
- Problems related to working life/career
- Impact of illness including cancer
- Loss and bereavement
- Sexuality
- Anger and conflict
making a start
Whether its your first time in therapy or not, beginning the process is never easy.
It typically starts with a brief phone call which often includes agreeing a date for our first consultation session. During your consultation session, you can share more about yourself and discuss what has led you to seek therapy. It will also give you a sense of what our ongoing work together will be like. Please feel free to ask me anything. Throughout your therapy, you are encouraged to discuss your thoughts and feelings openly, including any about me.
You can begin by emailing me to arrange a time to speak.
Email: Therapy@geetikarai.com
Registered With
Geetika Rai Psychotherapy