Dr Flavia Cigolla

My way of working

Central to my way of working is offering a non-judgemental, safe and relaxed therapeutic environment where clients can feel understood and reflect on their experiences. People may come to therapy for many different reasons and some may bring with them a diagnostic label. I am interested in the uniqueness of each individual’s experience and how the relationship with oneself, others and the world shape how people operate in their environment and give meaning to their experience.

Training

In 2011, I completed a Doctorate in Psychotherapeutic and Counselling Psychology at the University of Surrey, where I have learned the principles of a number of therapeutic models (Psychodynamic, Person-centred and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy). Being trained in using different therapeutic approaches allows me to integrate them in a creative way taking into account the client’s individual needs and preferences. I also have a personal and research interest in mindfulness and I draw from the new developments in mindfulness-based therapies to help clients become more aware of unhelpful patterns and develop the ability to be more present in their lives.

Since qualifying, I have trained in Dynamic Interpersonal Therapy (DIT), a psychodynamic therapy that looks at the links between current difficulties and patterns of relating to others that usually stem from childhood and impact on current relationships. I have also completed EMDR training, a therapy that is used for people who struggle with difficult past memories and trauma.

Experience

I have over 10 years experience of working within different NHS services alongside my private practice. Services I have worked in include a pain management service, a primary care psychology service, a Community Mental Health Team, and a specialist personality disorder service. In these settings, I have worked both short-term and long-term with clients experiencing a broad range of emotional and psychological difficulties, from mild depression and anxiety to complex trauma and difficulties managing strong emotions.

Practice location

I see clients online and in a consulting room located in Clerkenwell: