Lucy - A Psychotherapist in Richmond upon Thames TW9
Name - Lucy Shimmens
Qualifications - MSc in Psychotherapy (Middlesex University) Grade: Distinction, Post Graduate Clinical Diploma in Psychotherapy (the Metanoia Institute). BSc Joint Honours Psychology & Sociology
Accredited Membership - UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
Practices - Richmond upon Thames, Online
Specialities - Couples/relationship counselling, a general sense that things are 'not right' with you, anxiety, grief and loss, depression, emotional abuse, family conflict, hopelessness, infertility, women’s issues, life transitions, loneliness, low self-esteem, parenting, relationship difficulties, sexual abuse, social anxiety, stress, 'stuckness', suicidal thoughts, trauma, workplace issues.
Insurance Companies Worked with - AXA, Aviva, Vitality Health and WPA.”
Fees: Individuals: £85 per 50 minute session. Couples: £120 per 50 minute session
Availability - Weekdays at various times
I am a qualified UKCP accredited psychotherapist and have worked in a variety of settings, including private mental health services, charitable organisations, as well as the NHS. This broad range of experience has allowed me to support people through a wide spectrum of emotional difficulties. More specifically, I have experience of supporting adults presenting with issues which have included; a general sense that things are 'not right' with you, anxiety, low mood, grief and bereavement, experiences of emotional, physical and sexual abuse, family difficulties, relationship struggles, low self-worth, loneliness, life changes, parenting challenges, work-related stress, or feeling stuck or overwhelmed. I have also worked with people who have experienced trauma or suicidal thoughts.
I also have experience of supporting couples, helping them look more closely at the patterns that shape their relationship and the tensions that can grow from them. Together, we explore how they relate to one another, how they navigate conflict, and how they find their way back to each other after difficulties, or to make the decision to separate. Our sessions offer space for both partners to express their feelings and experiences, and to gain insight into the underlying dynamics influencing their connection. The work can be gradual and at times challenging, but trust develops as we create a safe, steady environment where emotions and complexities can be explored openly and honestly.
My approach offers a space for you to explore your experiences at your own pace, within a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment. Together, we’ll gently make sense of what’s happening for you now and begin to uncover what might be keeping you feeling stuck, with the aim of opening up the possibility for change.
At the core of my work is the belief that the therapeutic relationship is central to healing. It’s through a genuine, trusting connection that meaningful and lasting change can take place. From our first meeting and throughout our work together, I place great importance on your emotional and physical safety. I’m mindful of the deep and often lasting effects of distressing or traumatic experiences on both body and mind, and I strive to offer a space where you feel truly heard, understood, and supported, at a pace that feels right for you.
I am also an approved provider for several insurance companies, including AXA, Aviva, Vitality Health and WPA.