Abstract colorful artwork featuring various shades of green, orange, and brown with curving and intersecting lines.

I’m Nina (she/her), a Trainee Integrative Arts Psychotherapist in the final year of a three-year MA.

I work integratively, so I don't follow one fixed model and instead adapt the work according to what you bring and what we are exploring together.

My practice is trauma-sensitive and non-pathologising. I am interested in understanding the experiences and patterns behind distress, while recognising that difficulties can be shaped by personal biology, relationships, environments and wider social systems.

The therapeutic relationship is central to my work. I see you as the expert in your own life, and my role is to help you explore your experiences, grow awareness and create the conditions needed for healing and growth.

My approach

Close-up of a wood surface with dark, wavy grain patterns.

How I work

  • I work from an intersectional, trauma-informed perspective, recognising that our mental health is shaped not only by our personal histories, identities and biology but also by our relationships, communities, and wider social systems.

    I am committed to creating an inclusive, anti-oppressive therapeutic space where every client feels welcome, respected, and able to bring their whole self.

    I do not support, practice, or condone conversion therapy of any kind. I believe that sexual orientations and gender identities are not disorders to be cured, fixed, or suppressed. My therapeutic approach is entirely non-directive and exploratory; I work collaboratively with clients to support their self-determination and emotional well-being without imposing any pre-determined agenda or goal to change who they are.

  • Talking is an important part of therapy, but it isn't the only way of working.

    I may introduce drawing, painting, image-making, movement, storytelling, music, sand tray or metaphor. These approaches can help us explore experiences, emotions and memories that may be difficult to express verbally.

    I may also draw on mindfulness, breath and body awareness, particularly when it is useful to notice how experiences are held physically as well as emotionally.

    There is no expectation to be artistic, and creative work is always optional. Some sessions may involve talking, others may involve creative work, or a combination of both.

  • My work is informed by a range of therapeutic approaches, allowing therapy to be flexible and responsive to your individual needs.

    These include:

    • Psychodynamic Therapy, exploring how early experiences continue to shape our present lives.

    • Attachment Theory, understanding how our earliest relationships influence the way we connect with ourselves and others.

    • Gestalt Therapy, developing awareness of thoughts, feelings, and bodily experience in the present moment.

    • Transactional Analysis, exploring patterns of communication and relationships.

    • Trauma-informed practice, recognising the impact of trauma on the mind, body, and nervous system.

    • Queer Theory and Intersectional Feminism, questioning “one-size-fits-all” approaches that have historically left out marginalised groups.

    • Trauma and complex trauma

    • Neurodivergence

    • LGBTQIA+ and GSRD

    • Body image and eating disorders

    • Anxiety, depression and low mood

    • Stress and burnout

    • Relationship difficulties

    • Domestic abuse

    • Self-esteem and confidence

    • Grief and loss

    • Emotional overwhelm

    • Life transitions and identity

Experience, Training and Professional Memberships

I am currently completing a three-year MA in Integrative Arts Psychotherapy, following a Diploma in the Therapeutic and Educational Application of the Arts.

My clinical experience includes NHS secondary care, specialist mental health services and a domestic abuse charity. I have worked in mental health for 6 years within the NHS, charity sector and privately, and have experience with LGBTQIA+, complex trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, negative body image, hormonal sensitivity, neurodivergence, disability and refugee status.

I have been approved by my training institute to undertake private practice alongside regular clinical supervision.

I am working towards UKCP and HCPC registration and am a trainee member of BAAT and UKCP. I am committed to ongoing CPD and reflective practice.

My practice is informed by the UKCP Code of Ethics and relevant professional and legal frameworks.

Logo of the Institute for Arts in Therapy & Education with blue, pink, and white colors.
UKCP logo with colorful geometric shapes and text that says UK Council for Psychotherapy
Abstract painting with a mix of colors including blue, purple, pink, yellow, and green, with textured and layered brushstrokes.