Meet the Therapist: Catrin Evans
Catrin Evans is a therapist in SW11 & TW9
What attracted you to become a therapist?
Prior to being a counsellor, I volunteered as a support, time and recovery worker at Mind in Camden which inspired me. My background as a classical musician also led me to facilitate workshops and performances with various projects including Open Academy RAM and Live Music Now. This involved working with diverse communities across London, connecting and relating empathetically, respecting autonomy, building trust and allowing people’s voices to be heard. The focus on breathing and being grounded resonated with me and encouraged me to further explore counselling studies.
Where did you train?
My counselling studies took place at the Minster Centre, Birkbeck College, and CPTA. I also hold a BSc (hons) degree in psychology from The Open University.
Can you tell us about the type of therapy you practise?
I am an integrative counsellor. This means that I draw on a number of different approaches to inform my practice. One of the reasons why I was drawn to this approach is that is honours the uniqueness of each individual. As every person is unique, not everybody works in the same way. The integrative approach allows me work in a way that is professional, empathetic, warm and attentive.
How does integrative counselling help?
I have worked extensively with loss and bereavement. My counselling approach aims to enable people to gain self-awareness, insight and clarity in the here-and-now through listening empathetically, being present, relational, and creating a safe therapeutic space to explore feelings confidentially and without judgement.
What sort of people do you usually see?
I work with individual adults who are 18 years or older. I draw on over seven years of counselling experience. This includes working in a hospice, within a bereavement counselling charity, and within a service providing counselling to carers and people who are bereaved.
What do you like about being a therapist?
I enjoy being present, listening empathetically, relating with authenticity, and respecting the uniqueness of each therapeutic relationship. The connection, working alliance, and empathy with another is a privilege, and being alongside someone on their journey is special. I thoroughly value having the opportunity to work with people from diverse backgrounds and from various walks of life. I am also inspired by the people I meet and work with. I take great pride in my work.
What is less pleasant?
While some administrative tasks (such as booking rooms) can be less pleasant, they are also very important tasks.
How long you’ve been with welldoing.org and what you think of us?
I have recently joined welldoing.org. I have received a warm welcome. I have appreciated the friendliness of the team, the treasure-trove of articles, and the intuitive nature of the website.
Do you ever suggest books or apps to clients?
This depends on each individual clinical situation as it arises. There are so many books to choose from. One book which I find inspiring is 8 Keys to Safe Trauma Recovery by Babette Rothschild. Since joining welldoing.org, I have encountered the Calm app, which I am enjoying.
What you do for your own mental health?
Beyond counselling, my hobbies are music, salsa dancing, maths, vintage fashion, theatre, and nature. I create regular time and space in my schedule for mindfulness. Playing the clarinet and singing in a choir are both relaxing. I also enjoy reflexology, aromatherapy, and the occasional spa break.
You are a therapist in London and Richmond. What can you share with us about seeing clients in those areas?
My main current practice is in Richmond and London. Working in this fast-paced capital city is exciting and wonderfully diverse. In November, I will additionally begin working in Brighton, which is vibrant and creative with fresh sea air.
What’s your consultation room like?
I work from a consulting room in Richmond which is warm, welcoming and where people can feel safe and supported. It is bright, quiet and furnished. There is a lovely waiting area and the room looks out to the garden or the quiet residential street. Excellent transport links are nearby.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
I wish if people knew that it is completely normal to feel various emotions in reaching-out to start therapy. My approach is warm and welcoming. I do my best to answer any questions that someone may have at this stage.
What did you learn about yourself in therapy?
In therapy, I have learnt about my resilience, tenacity and creativity.
