Identity-affirming Therapy

Emma Cumberland, MNCPS Acc.
Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling for Adults, Children & Young People
Diploma in Trauma & Mental Health Informed Schools and Communities
Post Graduate Certificate in Therapeutic Play Skills
Post Graduate Certificate in Education
BA (hons) Fine Art

Hi, my name is Emma (she/her). No one is defined by one simple thing; we are the totality of our identity and experiences. I am curious about what makes up your identity and how the different parts play out to create your individual experience and sense of self.

Gender & Sexuality Identity
As a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non binary or queer questioning person you are likely to face challenges that are unique to the LGBTQIA+ community; the impact of adverse reactions from others can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, poor self esteem, self harm and suicidal thoughts.

Questioning your gender or sexual identity can be confusing and overwhelming. You may have fears about the reactions of your family and friends and are hiding parts of yourself from other which may feel exhausting. Even if you are feeling confident in your gender or sexual identity, you may be struggling with challenges of rejection, discrimination, violence, bullying and hate crime

I can offer you an accepting and non-judgemental space to feel safe to fully explore your identity and to unpick specific challenges you are encountering. I can offer supportive approaches to manage intrusive thoughts, self-harm and suicidal feelings to help you feel more empowered.

Race & Cultural Identity
I am interested in the strengths and joy that your race and cultural identity bring you and how your experiences have shaped your sense of self and your view of the world. I am genuinely curious and welcome you to share all you wish to with me about your identity.

Living outside of a multicultural city, you may have experienced discrimination in a number of ways, such as daily microaggressions, blatant racism, threats of violence, hate crime or institutional racism at school or work. It may not be the focus of your work but I want to acknowledge the part these experiences may have played in creating who you are.

It’s important you can bring your whole self and explore your identity fully, of which your race and cultural background is an important factor; I want you to feel safe and welcome.

* Kate Devereux BSc (Hons) Counselling & Psychotherapy, MNCPS Acc.

Hi, my name is Kate and I hold a Counselling and Psychotherapy BSc (Hons) which includes Couple’s & Family Systems therapy.

I offer a non-judgemental space for you to unpack your troubles; honouring the trust you have placed in me to maintain confidentiality and safety.

Affirmation of identities involves recognising and honouring the various aspects of a person’s identity. During identity-affirming therapy the aim is to actively acknowledge, recognise, validate and support the unique characteristics that contribute to your sense of self. Through our therapy I hope to provide a safe space where you can openly express your identities without fear of judgement or discrimination, and that this inclusive environment enables you to feel respected, valued, empowered and able to thrive. A person’s identity can include (but is not limited to) race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and ability.

Military Identity

Research indicates that ex-serving military personnel frequently possess a robust and lasting sense of identity, which can contribute to heightened psychological distress, including depression. This enduring military identity often influences their values, beliefs, behaviours, and norms in profound ways. In my experience working with clients from the armed forces, I have observed how this military identity can significantly impact mental health. Many veterans struggle to reconcile their military past with civilian life, leading to feelings of isolation or inadequacy.

Recognising the effects of military service on your identity is crucial for uncovering any negative impacts on mental health and overall wellbeing. By exploring how military service shapes your self-perception and worldview, we can better understand the challenges you face. This understanding can facilitate a more effective therapeutic approach, allowing you to address issues related to your military identity and its psychological implications.

Ultimately, fostering awareness of these dynamics is essential for supporting veterans in navigating their mental health journeys and promoting healing and resilience. Emphasising this connection between identity and mental wellbeing is key to developing strategies that enhance your quality of life.

Self-identity in Later Life

Research indicates that many women over a certain age experience a profound sense of invisibility, which can lead to feelings of confusion, frustration, and hurt. As we age, particularly around retirement, our identities undergo significant transformations. The roles we once held within our families and communities may shift dramatically, prompting a re-evaluation of our self-perception.

This sense of invisibility often stems more from internal changes than from external circumstances. As our life dynamics evolve, we may feel disconnected from who we used to be, leading to a feeling of being overlooked by others. In therapy, my goal is to support you in navigating these changes and rediscovering your sense of self. It’s not uncommon to feel lost during this transition, and together, we can explore your identity and the new roles that may emerge.

Rebuilding your sense of self and finding where you truly belong can be a transformative journey. Our focus will be on the most important relationship you have—the one with yourself. By examining your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations, we can work together to help you reclaim your visibility and sense of purpose in this new chapter of your life.

If you are ready to start your therapy journey you can email us at: info@therapyroomspainswick.co.uk

We will book you in for an assessment session where we can get to know each other, and talk about what you need help with.

We look forward to meeting you.