Naeem Rahman – Integrative Therapist

I trained as an integrative therapist and use a variety of approaches in my work with clients. Therapy isn’t something that is done to you, rather, it’s a relationship between client and therapist, characterised by honesty, empathy, compassion and candour.

My practice involves creating connections – taking time to understand who you are, the space you’re in and you fit into your environment.

You may be thinking about therapy because the spaces you inhabit no longer feel right for you. Working relationally, I aim to build trust with clients so they can begin to feel safe to speak about their concerns. I recognise that it can take a while to build trust – and that is fine. Therapy is about you and you determine its pace.

Identifying patterns of behaviour is an important part of the work I do with clients. They shape how we interact with family, friends and colleagues. Sometimes we find ourselves trapped in relationships, engaging with others in ways that can feel uncomfortable or that does not serve us. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore these patterns and consider change.

My journey to becoming a therapist has been shaped by my voluntary work, beginning in a cultural/religious organization and more recently at Switchboard, the LGBT+ helpline. Through my experiences with marginalised and minoritised communities – and my own personal journey – I adopt an anti-oppressive lens in my practice. You can read more about that journey at my website: www.reflectivetherapy.org.uk

I feel that it’s important to develop an understanding of the systems of power and privilege that shape our world. We may not be able to change these systems – but recognising the impact on our lives can be the first step in deciding what, if anything, you want to do.

I also have extensive experience of working with aspects of identity and difference, including those related to sexuality, gender, race and culture. I take an intersectional approach and often concerns about low confidence, self-esteem, low mood and anxiety can connect with aspects of who we are.

I am currently undertaking training in somatic-informed trauma therapy and use aspects of this with those clients who may have experienced difficult and challenging episodes in the past. We are often socialised to ignore our emotions and bodily sensations, yet they offer vital information. Part of my role is working with clients to help them gain a better understanding of the impact of stress on their bodies.

If you have any questions – or just want to talk about what you could expect in therapy – I would be happy to speak with you. Drop me an email or text.

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