About me
Deborah Prossimo
I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in trauma, bereavement, depression, and anxiety, working with young people and adults since 2012.
I work from a humanistic perspective, which emphasises looking at the whole individual, focusing on concepts such as free will, self-efficacy, and self-actualisation.
Rather than concentrating on dysfunction, humanistic psychology strives to help people fulfil their potential and maximise their well-being. With that approach, I also use a variety of therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and transactional analysis.
I help clients to identify goals and potential solutions to problems that cause emotional turmoil. Seeking to improve communication and coping skills, strengthen self-esteem, and promote behaviour change and optimal mental health.
Most survivors, including those who are functioning well – even brilliantly - in some aspects of their lives, face another, even greater challenge: reconfiguring a brain/mind system that was constructed to cope with the worst. Just as we need to revisit traumatic memories in order to integrate them, we need to revisit the parts of ourselves that developed the defensive habits that helped us to survive. - Bessel van der Kolk MD
People often seek psychotherapy or counseling when they are in crisis. At times we can all feel ‘stuck’ as if there are no options left to explore. Other people come to therapy when they are not eminently in crisis but notice negative patterns emerging in their relationships, behaviours, or feelings.
Therapy can’t change the past, but it can help you understand the impact that past traumatic experiences have had on your emotional and mental well-being today. Working together with me, we identify ways to move forward and ultimately find a more satisfying and valuable way to live.
Therapy is a collaborative process; I provide a safe and confidential space to explore and talk openly without discrimination or judgment. Taking the first steps can be difficult, but an initial phone consultation – with no obligation, can help you address any concerns you may have.
I also offer therapy via video conferencing on the platform Zoom.
Each therapy is tailored to the individual, it is ultimately a very co-creative process. If we agree to work together, we then consider the treatment length – it may be just a few sessions or on an open-ended basis. It is helpful to work out a time frame from the outset, which we can agree and review as the work unfolds.
Training & Qualifications
Training, qualifications & experience
I’m an accredited member of the BACP
I have a degree in Psychology, a Level 3 Certificate in Counselling and a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.
Experience in working with adults and young people who suffer from depression and anxiety. I have also worked with adults and young people affected by alcohol and drugs, working for CRI Worcester Pathways and recovery.
During my studies I volunteered for Kemp Hospice and North Worcestershire Bereavement to support adults and young people through all stages of bereavement.