Psychotherapy
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength”
Sigmund Freud
I offer an attentive, non-judgmental therapeutic setting to explore your inner world, fostering self-awareness, connection, and meaningful wellbeing across all aspects of life.
I have helped people successfully address a range of issues including depression, anxiety, impulsivity, emotional regulation and balance, self-esteem, identity, sex and sexuality, relationship issues, parenting, serious illness, bereavement, and meaning and purpose.
I have also helped people with ADHD and ASD presentations or diagnoses to gain a greater degree of comfort and ease with themselves and in the world.
As a result of the work, people have developed a more compassionate and honest curiosity about their inner life and their history, enabling them to be more aware, more confident, more harmonious, and lead more successful, meaningful, and happy lives.
What is psychodynamic psychotherapy?
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a form of talking therapy rooted in the understanding that our present thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are shaped by past experiences, many of which operate outside our conscious awareness. In a safe and reflective space, this approach helps you explore recurring patterns, unspoken fears, and hidden motivations that may be holding you back. It’s not about quick fixes or surface-level solutions—it’s about developing a deeper understanding of yourself, your relationships, and the choices you make.
How it works, what it can help with
Through regular, confidential sessions, psychodynamic psychotherapy offers a consistent and containing relationship where you can speak freely and honestly. Together, we’ll work to uncover the roots of emotional distress, identify recurring themes in your life, and make sense of complex feelings. This process fosters self-awareness, emotional resilience, and an increased capacity for connection. It can be particularly effective for addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, bereavement, and the lingering impact of trauma or life transitions.
Evidence
Research supports the effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, with evidence showing that its benefits often continue to grow even after therapy has ended. Studies suggest that the depth and insight gained through this approach can lead to lasting changes in emotional well-being, improved interpersonal relationships, and a stronger sense of self. The therapeutic relationship itself—a space of trust, safety, and consistent reflection—is a key factor in these outcomes.
Practicalities
Where do you work? In person or remotely?
I work in person in the City of London, and remotely via Zoom on a global basis.
What does it cost?
The first session is complementary and obligation free.
If you then decide to work with me, my fee is £150 per session.
I have a limited number of reduced rate sessions based on need and economic resources, so please get in touch even if these rates seem beyond your reach.
I offer weekly 50 minute sessions.
Are sessions confidential?
Your work with me remains private and confidential at all times other than in the event serious risks to life or well-being arise. In this case we can discuss and plan a route to additional support.
Can I cancel a session? What happens if I don’t show up?
Late cancellations (within 5 days of your scheduled session) and no-shows are charged and can’t be rescheduled, however, it’s your time and your process and I understand sometimes it’s difficult to attend. We can think through at the next session what got in the way of you attending, and I’ll continue to be available for you going forward.
Do I need to bring anything or prepare?
No. You are invited to come as you are. You might wish to do further reflecting or reading between sessions, but for the first session it’s enough just to think about what you’d like to get out of our work.
How many sessions will I need?
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is an open-ended treatment, but ultimately it’s up to you - you can end any time you like (although it’s usually helpful to work through an ending over a few sessions), or stay as long as you feel you are benefitting.
Is psychodynamic psychotherapy right for me?
It’s not right for everybody but it is right for many, if not most, people.
This type of therapy is ‘non-directive’ - it isn’t about working through a ‘programme’ or completing specific tasks or steps or exercises, rather it’s about thinking about what has been and is going on for you. That might include reflecting on what’s going on in your life and relationships today, or it could be thinking about your past experiences and what you’ve made of them.
It isn’t always easy - at times intense or difficult emotions may be aroused, but the payoff of going deeper is greater self knowledge and self awareness, and perhaps more lasting change than might otherwise be available.
I’m not even sure what’s wrong or what I want to change, I just want things to be different. Can psychotherapy help?
Absolutely. An important part of the process is to help you get clarity about what’s going on (or going wrong) in your life and relationships and what it might be worthwhile to explore changing. You don’t need to come with any clear or specific goals, it can be enough just to be curious about why things feel or work out the they way they do.
I’m struggling with substances or compulsive behaviours - will you see me for psychotherapy, or do I need to get that under control first?
Yes, as a recovery specialist I am able to take on patients struggling with addiction. We can try to schedule sessions at a time of the week which are lower risk for you given your patterns of use. However, it’s very important for you to be aware that your progress will be slower than if things were more in control.
A better strategy might be to engage me for recovery coaching, after which we can think about whether something more psychotherapeutic could be of use.
Daniel Gilsenan Psychology
Psychotherapy and Recovery Coaching
enquiries@gilsenan.com