PAULA ARRIAZU

(she/her) UK registered Counselling Psychologist and EMDR Therapist

Hola! – about meWho I am

I am a HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist, trained in Latin America & Europe, now living and working in London, UK. I have 12 years of experience working with children, young people, adults and families. I also do extensive work with organisations to support staff through reflective practice groups, supervision, consultation and training.

I am a HCPC registered and BPS Chartered Psychologist, and I am also an EMDR Therapist registered with the EMDR UK Association. I have experience working in the NHS, in the charity sector, in the Humanitarian field and in private practice.

My practiceHow I can help

I have a passion for supporting people that have suffered adverse and/or traumatic experiences. I offer specialised and evidence-based Trauma focused therapy to work through PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and Complex PTSD presentations.

I also do extensive work with people that are struggling with anxiety, low mood and those who are facing challenges relating to self-esteem, family roles and transitions, sexuality, gender identity, oppression, prejudice and social injustice.

In my work with children and young people, I offer a trusting environment where we can together think of creative solutions to address worries, fears and difficult emotions. I aim to connect and build trust with young people through paying close attention to what is important to them, removing the pressure of having to "sit and talk" and engaging in playful and creative activities that allow them to consider their difficulties without feeling overwhelmed.

Areas of workWhat I work with

Trauma, PTSD, CPTSD Anxiety Bereavement Children & Adolescents Coping Skills Low Mood Gender-based violence Family Conflict Stepmother support LGBTQ+ community Life Transitions Gender Transition Parenting Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Racial Identity Relationship Issues Self Esteem Sexual Abuse Sleep or Insomnia

Practical bits

Therapy in English and Spanish
In person in Brixton (limited spaces) and Crystal Palace
Online sessions
£120 per 50-minute session
Recognised BUPA provider

Values & approachHow I work

I work from an Integrative approach — which means I draw from different methods and schools of thought to address the unique needs of each person. I encourage people to have an active say in the therapeutic process to ensure a collaborative approach to the work. I fundamentally believe we all hold valuable knowledge about what feels right for us and this should help guide the work we do together.

I hold a framework that recognises the impact of systemic inequalities in individual and collective wellbeing. I intend to hold a safe space that is understanding and can reflect on how social structures, power & gender dynamics and cultural norms can affect our mental health. As an immigrant, I value the importance of accessing support that is sensitive to diaspora and migration experiences.

Shall we talk?

Some people start therapy to learn helpful strategies to manage their emotions and feel better in their everyday lives. Others prefer a reflective space to look into experiences that have been — or still prove — very difficult. If you are hoping to access support for your child, I would be happy to have a discussion about support and next steps.

Therapy needs to work for you — finding a therapist you or your child feel comfortable with is key.

Book a free 15-minute consultation

Organisations: for reflective practice, supervision (groups and individual) or training, get in touch.