Originally from South America, I come from a Sociology and Political Science background, and I am now undertaking doctoral research in the interdisciplinary field of Psychosocial studies.
After my own journey in therapy where I experienced healing through the therapeutic relationship, I decided to train as a therapist myself. I now have the skills to accompany others in this process.
I am committed to learning and developing an anti-oppressive approach in my practice as I firmly believe the impact of the social context and injustice on mental health need to be considered in therapy.
Work and Experience
I hold an MSc in Humanistic Psychotherapy from the Metanoia Institute in London. In addition, I have trained as a Sophrology and Relaxation Practitioner. I believe integrating thoughts, emotions and the body can facilitate well-being and healing.
I am currently undertaking research as a PhD student in Psychosocial studies at the Birkbeck University of London.
I am a practitioner with lived experience of mental health issues and distress. I am happy to now offer a space like the one that helped me heal in the past. I remain committed to working collaboratively with my clients and to accompanying them, offering my knowledge, skills and experience appropriately to support them.
As a migrant and autistic person myself, I have benefitted from this kind of liberating work, and can offer a different perspective from what you may find out there.
I am a member of the UKCP (United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy) and I am bound by its Ethical Framework for good practice. You can read more about the UKCP Code of Ethics here.
I have experience working as a therapist in different agencies, in the third sector and the NHS, with a diverse client population.
I have worked with a range of issues such as:
Relationship issues
Low self-esteem
Anxiety
Depression
Abuse
Trauma
Anger issues
Cultural issues
Loss
Discrimination
Autism & ADHD
Identity issues
Migration
Mixed heritage
High Sensitivity
Exploration of non-normative lifestyles (polyamory & ENM)
Qualifications and Memberships
Humanistic Psychotherapist (MSc)
Member of the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
Member of the Radical Therapist Network
Member of the Relational School
In addition, I am committed to learning and professional development. In order to improve my skills and provide a better service, I engage with continuing professional development (CDP) on a regular basis. Some of the most trainings I have undertaken are:
Introduction to Gender Identities
Working with Race-based trauma & stress
Living & Working with Neurodivergence
Working with harm in therapy
Lucia Sarmiento Verano 