Welcome to

Brighter Beginnings Therapy

"Shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces"

~ Ann Voskamp

Hello and Welcome

If you are seeking to reconnect with your sense of self after an abusive relationship, I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental therapeutic space to support your recovery. I am a registered trauma psychotherapist specialising in narcissistic and emotional abuse, trauma bonding, and co-dependency.

My work is informed by both clinical training and lived experience of domestic abuse and trauma. Together, we can explore the impact of abuse on your mind, body, and wellbeing, and work towards restoring safety, clarity, and self-worth. I work in a trauma-informed way, supporting you to process difficult emotions at your own pace without retraumatising you.

You are welcome to contact me to arrange a free discovery call—an informal conversation to explore how we might work together on your healing journey.

About me

I am Lisa, and I am a survivor of domestic violence; I use my experiences and training to work with others to find their brighter beginning.

Recovering from gaslighting, loss of trust in oneself, and erosion of self-worth can be deeply challenging. With the right therapeutic support, healing from trauma and abuse is possible.

I hold a degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy. I am fully insured, DBS checked and registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the British Psychological Society (BPS), and I work in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework.

I primarily work with individuals who are preparing to leave, or who have left, abusive relationships and wish to understand trauma bonds, process their experiences, and rebuild self-worth.

Speak in Confidence

Counselling sessions are available online or in person at a private counselling space in LS27, Leeds, West Yorkshire. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely, supported with sensitivity and empathy.

My practice is guided by the BACP Ethical Framework, ensuring that all work is carried out safely, ethically, and with professional integrity.

A problem shared…

Reaching out to speak about abuse can feel daunting and I understand that because I have been there.

Counselling psychotherapy offers a supportive space to help you make sense of your experiences, understand the emotions that arise, and develop tools to support healing and recovery.

Healing from trauma

Working together, we can explore your experiences focusing on validating your experiences, building trust, and developing resilience. We can work on restoring self-worth and healing from trauma. Narcissistic emotional abuse and toxic relationships can significantly impact your sense of self; therapy can support you in reconnecting with your strengths and moving towards a brighter beginning.

What issues can therapy help with?

I work with clients experiencing a range of difficulties, with a particular focus on trauma and emotional abuse. Here are some of the issues I can support you with through counselling psychotherapy:

Depression

Low self-confidence

Low self-esteem

Identity

Anger management

Guilt

Shame

Triggers after trauma

Anxiety and panic attacks

Disability and carer topics

LGBTQIA+ themes

Safety

Effects of gas-lighting

Trauma responses

Attachment

Hypervigilance

Sleep problems

Flashbacks

Co-dependency

Trauma bonds

Boundaries

Coping strategies

Self-worth

Getting Started

It is completely natural to feel nervous before your first therapy session. I offer a short, free and informal discovery call by phone or online, giving you the opportunity to discuss what you would like to gain from counselling and to ask any questions you may have.

Reaching out is an important first step, and this initial conversation can help you feel more comfortable before beginning regular sessions.

I work in a trauma-informed way, prioritising emotional safety and minimising the risk of re-traumatisation throughout our work together.

Counselling sessions are 50 minutes in length and are offered online via Google Meet or in person at counselling rooms in LS27, Leeds. Sessions are £65 and payable at the time of booking. There is no fixed number of sessions; progress is reviewed regularly to ensure your therapeutic goals are being supported, and you are free to end therapy at any time.

To begin your journey towards a brighter beginning, please use the contact form below to arrange a free, informal discovery call. This is an opportunity to explore how therapy may support you and how we might work together.

Get In Touch

You are welcome to get in touch if you have any questions about how I work as a counsellor and psychotherapist, or if you would like to arrange a free discovery call.

This short, informal conversation provides an opportunity to discuss what you hope to gain from counselling and how I may be able to support you.

If you would prefer to speak by phone, please include your telephone number in the contact form and I will call you. I am happy to answer any questions you may have before arranging your first counselling session.