HUMANISTIC INTEGRATIVE COUNSELLING & PSYCHOSEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY
ABOUT ME
Hi, I am Alessandra. I am a bilingual Italian-English Humanistic Integrative Counsellor, currently expanding my professional training in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy. I work with individuals, couples and polycules to explore emotional, relational and sexual challenges.
MY APPROACH
I believe that every individual has the capacity to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. Yet at times, certain experiences or learned patterns can leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected from ourselves and others. We might yearn for change but not know where to start.
At other times, these difficulties can show up in our intimate relationships or sex lives, affecting our confidence, intimacy, and sense of belonging. Though often invisible, these struggles can profoundly affect our well-being and lead to feelings of shame, isolation, or hopelessness. Talking about such experiences can feel daunting, but doing so in a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic space, can bring about meaningful change and greater sexual and relational well-being (whatever that looks like for you). I think that change is possible, and that therapy can open new ways of feeling, connecting, and living fully.
As a Humanistic Integrative Counsellor, I take a holistic approach, grounded in empathy and curiosity. This means that I invite clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations, drawing connections between them. I integrate a range of therapeutic models and tailor each session to meet the unique needs of my clients. Creativity is a key part of my practice and when appropriate, I integrate art, drawing, bodywork, dream exploration, and other creative techniques into the therapeutic process.
As a Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist (in training), I view sexual and relational difficulties within their broader context. I use a biopsychosocial lens to understand how biological, psychological, and social factors shape sexual and relational challenges. I work with individuals, couples and multi-partnered people on issues such as sexual function difficulties (erectile or ejaculation difficulties, orgasmic problems, vaginismus, genital pain and pain during sex), low and loss of desire, sexual compulsive behaviours, infidelity and conflict. I also offer a safe space for individuals wishing to explore their gender identity, sexual orientation, or relationship styles.
My practice is sex-positive, inclusive, and affirming of all sexual orientations, gender identities and relationship types.
TRAINING, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Humanistic Integrative Counselling from CPPD London (Centre for Personal and Professional Development).
- Certificate in Humanistic Counselling Skills from the Gestalt Centre (London).
- Certificate in Working with Couples and Other Relationships from The Centre for Psychosexual Health.
- Diploma in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy at the Contemporary Institute of Clinical Sexology (CICS) – in training.
- EMDR Therapy at EMDR Centre London – in training.
As an Accredited Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I work within the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.
As a Student Member of the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists (COSRT), I act in accordance with its Code of Ethics and Practice.
AREAS OF WORK
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Eating Disorders
- Addictions and Compulsions
- Trauma
- Anger and anger management
- Self Esteem and Self-Worth
- Relationship issues (e.g. conflict / affairs / communication)
- Family issues
- Grief, Loss and Bereavement
- Sexual Abuse and Physical violence in childhood
- Trauma
- Work/Life balance issues
- Sexuality, gender and relationship questioning
- Sexual compulsive behaviour
- Low sexual desire
- Orgasm problems
- Vaginismus
- Genital pain and Pain during sex
- Erectile and Ejaculation difficulties
SESSIONS
I offer in-person and online sessions via Zoom, both short and long term. A free 15-minute phone consultation is available to understand if we are a good fit. Please feel free to contact me on 07838 340527 (or via email) to ask questions or arrange a first session.
I aim to respond within 48 hours and all communication between us will be strictly confidential, and so will be the content of our sessions. I look forward to hearing from you.
RATES
Individual: £80 per 50-minute session
Couples and polycules: £100 per 60-minute session
*I offer discounted fees for clients, couples and polycules who wish to explore psychosexual issues*