Frequently Asked Questions

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  • A somatic therapist is a certified mental health professional who can help you to reduce stress, trauma, and emotional pain through a mind-body approach. Unlike traditional talk therapy, somatic therapy incorporates the use of physical techniques to help to release stress and trauma and regulate your nervous system. Helping you to shift out of survival mode into a calmer more connected state.

  • Online somatic therapy can be incredibly effective because it allows you to engage in deep mind-body work from the safety, comfort, and privacy of your own home. Your home environment is often where your nervous system feels most secure, which can enhance the healing process. I am very experienced in carrying out breathwork assessments and teaching online, after gaining experience of this in the NHS and in my private practice.

    • To get the most out of our online therapy sessions, you will simply need:

      • A private, quiet room where you will not be disturbed or overheard.

      • A stable internet connection and a laptop, tablet, or phone with a working camera (use of a laptop or tablet makes it easier to see your breathing during breathwork).

      • A comfortable place to sit or lie down where I will be able to observe your upper body during breathwork exercises.

      • Any comforting items that you would like to have with you, such as a cosy blanket and a hot drink. Your dog or cat are also very welcome! :)

    • I offer either weekly or fortnightly sessions, depending on your preference. 

    • Most of my clients have a regular slot that I keep for as long as they need it e.g 10.45am every Monday. 

    • I also have capacity for a few clients who need ad-hoc sessions e.g. if they work shifts or don’t have a regular schedule. 

  • I work between 8am and 5pm on a Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

    • It varies according to your individual needs. Some clients only need a few sessions, most of my clients need longer term therapy. I’d say that the average is 6 - 12 months, but some people need longer than this. 

    • You are in control and are free to end the sessions at any point. Normally therapy ends when you are happy that you have achieved the changes that you would like. 

    • No, my appointments are held online via Zoom or over the phone. 

    • My clients find this to be a convenient way to fit therapy into a busy life and have sessions from the comfort of their own home. 

    • I will reply to you within 2 working days.

    • We will arrange a free 20 minute phone consultation. This is an opportunity for you to tell me what you would like support for and for you to ask any questions that you might have.  If we both decide that we are a good fit for working together, we will find a time slot that works for you.

    • Before your first appointment I will ask you to complete a couple of short forms online and to send the payment for your session in advance of the appointment. 

  • The sessions are £75 for an hour of therapy. 

    • Yes, what you tell me in the therapy sessions is confidential. The only exceptions to this are if I am required to share information for legal reasons or in order to protect against harm to yourself or another person. 

    • I also have regular supervision, which is a requirement of my professional membership with the BACP. In these sessions I talk about some of the details from clients sessions, but without using any personally identifiable information. This supervision process is in place to ensure that you receive the best possible therapy.

  • My therapy is likely to work well for you if:

    • You are happy to commit to regular therapy, either weekly or fortnightly

    • You are open to a holistic approach that includes a focus on mind, body and breath.

    • You are willing to practice self-care exercises between our sessions e.g. breathwork exercises - even 5 minutes a day can make a difference!

Hello, I’m Nicola

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As a Counsellor, Somatic Therapist, and Breathwork Physiotherapist registered with the BACP, HCPC, and CSP, I bring together over twenty years of experience as a healthcare professional with a warm, holistic approach. By working with both mind and body, I support you to find more calm, joy, and freedom in your life.

I can support you to recover from the past, find more calm and well-being and create happier, healthier relationships.


 “I was suffering from PTSD around COVID and trauma from a previous abusive relationship. Nicola helped me immensely. She gave me a breathing technique that allowed me to feel calm and safe and I could use this any time of the day or night. It gave me a break from the feelings of constant anxiety and fear and helped change my life.”

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Ready to begin?

Take the first step.

A happier, calmer, more nourishing life is possible. And I would love to support you on that journey.