Damien Kelly Psychotherapy London

Hello. Thanks for stopping by my website! Glad to have you here!

I am Damien, an attachment-based Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist-in-training with a distinct approach to therapy.

I am fully committed to providing a supportive, empathetic environment that fosters positive change through therapy. My dedication is focused on helping you confidently navigate life's challenges.

I am dedicated to establishing a secure and inclusive environment where we can cultivate a robust, reliable partnership and focus on your personal growth and development. Recognising each individual's distinct needs and preferences, I will customise my approach to fit you, guaranteeing that you receive the tailored care you merit.

I am available to provide support, with a focus on empathy, respect, and confidentiality, at one of my two conveniently located central London offices:

Cavendish Square / Harley Street

(minutes from Oxford Circus)

Caledonian Road

(within walking distance of St. Pancras, King's Cross)

If you are ready to take the first step or have any questions, please get in touch with me:

Email: kelly.therapy@pm.me.

I have a limited number of low-cost, twice-weekly spaces available to ensure that the cost of psychotherapy is not a barrier for you.

About Me

Background

After earning a degree in psychology from Trinity College, Dublin, I pursued further education and obtained a Master's in Clinical Psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London. I then gained experience managing the Inspired Personality Disorder Service, where I provided dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) to a wide range of individuals. Following this, I underwent four years of training in attachment-based psychoanalytic psychotherapy at the Bowlby Centre in London. I am a graduate member of the British Psychological Society (GMBPsS) and am currently working towards UKCP registration. My dedication to ongoing professional development is reflected in my diverse experience supporting clients in private practice, the NHS, and the voluntary sector, demonstrating my ability to adapt to different environments and clients effectively.

Specialities

I possess extensive experience in working with individuals grappling with trauma, substance misuse (including chemsex), shame, loss, anxiety, and relationship issues, and individuals diagnosed with personality disorders. My professional background also involves working with individuals who have experienced childhood sexual abuse and institutionalisation.

I have effectively utilised Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills to offer personalised support to individuals diagnosed with Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) or displaying similar traits.

Approach

In my therapeutic approach, I strongly emphasise Bowlby’s attachment theory. This theory, which underscores the significance of understanding relationships, showing compassion, and promoting individual well-being, forms the backbone of my practice. I also integrate psychoanalysis to shed light on unconscious processes, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the human psyche.

About Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, often referred to as “talk therapy,” is a collaborative treatment method based on dialogue. It involves discussing thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to enhance well-being.

Psychotherapy offers a supportive environment for individuals to talk openly with an objective, neutral, and nonjudgmental person. This process can help recognise and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviours.

The benefits of psychotherapy are numerous. It can alleviate symptoms and emotional distress, providing a sense of relief, while teaching new coping strategies. It can enhance communication and interpersonal skills, boost self-esteem, and encourage behaviour change.

Furthermore, psychotherapy can help manage and overcome specific mental health disorders, address life’s challenges, and promote personal growth and self-discovery. By participating in psychotherapy, you can better understand yourself and others, establish personal goals, and work towards desired change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please get in touch with me at kelly.therapy@pm.me if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is Kelly Therapy?

Kelly Therapy is an attachment-based psychoanalytic psychotherapy practice providing individual therapy services for adults.

What are your experience and qualifications?

I have over ten years of experience working in mental health services, including two years as an Inspired Personality Disorder Service deputy manager. I hold a Bachelor's degree (BA Hons) in psychology from Trinity College, Dublin and a Master's degree (MSc) in Clinical Psychology from Goldsmiths, University of London. Additionally, I completed four years of psychotherapy training with the Bowlby Centre, accredited by the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). I am a trainee member of the UKCP and a British Psychological Society (BPS) graduate member.

What is the availability of therapy sessions at Kelly Therapy?

I offer therapy sessions from Tuesday to Thursday. Please get in touch with me to schedule an appointment.

What services does Kelly Therapy offer?

As a trainee Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist, I aim to create a safe and confidential space where you can explore whatever you decide to bring to therapy. My role is to offer as much reflection, care, attention and expertise as possible.

I offer long-term, open-ended, one-to-one, in-person therapy sessions. The approach is relational and psychoanalytic.

How long are the sessions?

A session lasts for 50 minutes.

What is the cancellation and holiday policy?

It is expected that all sessions will be attended to ensure consistency in the therapy process. In exceptional circumstances, 14 days notice is required to cancel a session; otherwise, the full fee becomes payable.

We will take breaks during Easter and Christmas. For the summer holidays, I understand that not everyone wants to take breaks during the more expensive school holidays. We can discuss timings, but a three-month notice period must be provided.

Does Kelly Therapy receive third-party referrals?

I work directly with clients who pay privately and do not accept referrals from third parties or insurance payments.

Does Kelly Therapy follow a code of ethics?

I abide by the Bowlby Centre ethical guidelines and the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) ethical frameworks, which are available on their website (https://www.psychotherapy.org.uk)

What are Kelly Therapy's confidentiality policies?

Therapy is a fully confidential activity and an aspect I rigorously adhere to. As part of my ethical code of practice, I have regular clinical supervision where I discuss my work. I also write session notes anonymised and held securely for five years after you leave therapy. Any other personal information, e.g. address, telephone number, and information disclosed on the pre-therapy questionnaire, is confidential and stored securely. However, if I need to consult anybody else about your case, e.g., your GP, I will only do so after discussing it with you.

In exceptional circumstances, where there are severe acts of harm to self and others, in criminal cases or if I am summoned to appear before a Court of Law, maintaining confidentiality may not be possible. It should be stressed, however, that this is unusual, and you will be consulted and kept informed in all cases.

How do I end therapy?

You can terminate your therapy whenever you wish. Yet, as reviewing our work together is an integral part of the therapeutic process, I suggest committing to at least six sessions once therapy is embarked upon before you decide not to continue.

In the case of longer-term treatment, I also recommend spending several sessions working towards an ending. Our relationship will potentially be significant, and an essential aspect of our work together is to address the relationship’s end.

What do I do in case of an emergency?

If a life-threatening or urgent emergency arises, contact the emergency services on 999, go to your nearest hospital A&E department or phone a crisis helpline such as the Samaritans (free call: 116 123).

Damien Kelly (GMBPsS)

Damien Kelly (GMBPsS)