Shamim Patel

My work is rooted in Psychodynamic and Humanistic Psychotherapy. This means I am interested in you as a whole person—not just a set of symptoms. Together, we look beneath the surface of your immediate concerns to understand the underlying patterns, early experiences, and relational dynamics that shape how you feel today.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you are navigating anxiety, depression, or a sense of being “stuck” without knowing why. I provide a safe, confidential, and empathetic space where we can explore your stories and experiences without judgment. I believe that by understanding our internal world, we gain the freedom to change our external one.

My path to psychology is driven by a profound commitment to holding space for others during their most vulnerable times. My foundational experience includes extensive work in coaching and mentoring for prominent organizations such as Emirates, Oracle, and the NHS UK, helping individuals navigate the complexities of personal and professional growth. This foundational experience is complemented by over 200 hours of clinically supervised mental health support on a UK-based mental health helpline. During this time, I undertook rigorous training to effectively respond to individuals in acute distress, dealing with a wide range of complex issues including, but not limited to, suicide, self-harm, and abuse.

A key area of my expertise lies in crisis intervention, where I have skillfully applied proven de-escalation techniques and risk assessment measures to determine if an individual is at imminent risk of suicide, ensuring their immediate safety and well-being. I consider my proudest moments to be the positive feedback I have received from those I have supported, including an instance where an individual credited me with saving their life. I believe it is a profound privilege to hold space for someone’s pain and to be a steadfast support during
their most vulnerable times.

I am currently furthering my expertise in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Counselling through a foundational course with the esteemed Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust in London. My approach is also informed by training in Transference Focused Psychotherapy (TFP), which focuses on how our internal scripts play out in our current relationships.

I hold a Master’s with Distinction from the University of Kent and am a Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society (GMBPsS). My commitment to the field is further demonstrated by my work on the University of Kent Wellbeing Advisory Board, an initiative featured by the BBC.

I believe that quality mental health support should be accessible. To support this mission, I offer therapy in line with the clinic’s Reduced Fee Program.