about Me
Helping you to learn to live in an imperfect world is my aim, you can only change yourself, not others.
I am Naila Dunleavy, a mother, psychotherapist / counsellor, writer and artist, a migrant to London at the age of 19 months. My life journey has led to an exploration of identity, (ancestral) trauma, migration, and displacement. Having started my career path as a Systems Analyst/Developer, I retrained as a psychotherapist after taking time out to raise a family. I found a home in this discipline and I continue to be absorbed and fascinated by it. In an ideal world, everyone should have access to therapy not simply when a breaking point or crisis is reached.
Wherever we sit in our lives; within our families, personal and work friendships, alone and in society, life is a challenge. Working together can enable blockages to be dislodged, learned patterns of behaviour reflected upon and understood in order to change the way you exist in the world, to make better decisions, create healthy boundaries and to recognise and own your power. I will help you discover 'all' of you.
I have experience working with children aged 5 upwards (presently working with adults 16+), as a conference speaker and a facilitator.
I am also an artist, writer and perform spoken word - further information under 'Events'.
I am integratively trained (person-centred, psychodynamic, systemic, transcultural work and attachment theories) and use appropriate modalities for your needs. I have a particular interest in:
- identity
- challenges with regard to autonomy, patriarchy, faith and custom/culture
- oppression in any form
- migration/displacement
- individual, ancestral, and collective trauma
- parenting and parenting children with additional needs
- the varying aspects and challenges of motherhood, pregnancy and fertility/infertility.
I can help with most issues, including
- Anxiety, depression and panic attacks
- Relationships – family, romantic, friendship and work
- Identity issues/conflict – race, racism, culture, colourism, religion, class, age, sexual
- Separation and divorce
- Shame / Guilt
- Self-development / self-esteem / lacking motivation / hopelessness
- Anger & stress management
- Parenting issues
- Pregnancy/Post-natal anxiety or depression
- Bereavement and loss
- Work/ career/ school issues
