Before becoming a psychoanalytic psychotherapist I trained as an occupational therapist, working with people with mental health difficulties. I qualified as a psychotherapist in 1996, completing the postgraduate Diploma in Psychodynamic Studies, Leicester University. At that time I was co-managing an NHS day and out-patient service for people struggling with severe anxiety disorders and personality difficulties. In 2001 I began further specialist psychotherapy training with the South Trent Training while working at the NHS Dynamic Psychotherapy Service in Leicester and qualified in 2007.

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I worked for the NHS  in mental health for 34 years in both Nottingham and Leicester, the last 21 years as a  Senior and then Principal Psychotherapist. I provided assessments, group psychotherapy, brief and long term individual psychotherapy, teaching, supervision and consultation. I am an experienced supervisor and teacher. In 2011 I developed my private practice and I retired from the NHS in 2022.

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I retain an active interest in developments within psychoanalytic psychotherapy and I have undertaken  training in Transference Focused Psychotherapy - a long term evidence-based approach for people with personality disorders - and in Dynamic Interpersonal Therapy - a NICE recommended psychodynamic brief approach for people with depression. I enjoy teaching and supervising others and completed a Diploma of Proficiency in Psychoanalytic Supervision with The Guild of Psychotherapists in November 2014. I am member of the Forum for Independent Psychotherapists, the International Society for Transference Focused Psychotherapy, and the South Trent Training. I am  registered with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy and am subject to their complaints and disciplinary procedures. I also fulfil their requirements for ethical practice and continuing professional development.

 

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My Approach

 

I believe that the power of psychoanalytic psychotherapy lies in the unique relationship that develops between the client and therapist. Within a trusting relationship and private space, painful and important issues can be thought about and understood. No two people are the same, even though their difficulties and experiences may be similar. Having worked with a lot of people struggling with emotional issues and mental health problems, I can recognise when a different kind of help is needed and have a good understanding of how to adapt the therapeutic approach to people’s different needs.

 

I consider psychoanalytic psychotherapy to be a worthwhile investment in oneself, which yields lasting change. It is a privilege to work with people through a process of developing a deep and enduring understanding of themselves that can help them to achieve their full potential.

 

For further information, including details of my practice, fees and appointments, please contact me.  I can be contacted by:

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E-Mail: judith.hurwood@gmail.com

 

Phone: 01162 108 892

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