Karen Austin 

Individual and Couple Psychotherapist (MBACP)

Relationships are the mainstay of our lives. Our relationships can bring us great happiness, connection and meaning but, at other times, have the potential to cause us pain, confusion and despair.

I am a qualified and experienced psychotherapist and couple therapist with a master’s degree in psychology. As well as my private practice, I am a Senior Visiting Clinician and Lecturer at Tavistock Relationships and an Honorary Teaching Fellow at Birkbeck, University of London. I have experience of working with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, cultures, sexual orientations and identities and with a wide range of issues. I can offer a safe, empathic, confidential space to help you to explore your difficulties and navigate a way forward. 

You might be a couple going through a difficult stage, stuck in repeating patterns, arguing or not communicating, lacking intimacy and feeling alone. Or an individual struggling with relationships and life, wanting to reach your potential, gain insight into yourself and connect with others. You might have experienced past trauma, have reached a crisis point, or just want time to focus on yourself. 

My approach is based in exploration of early experiences and how these shape us and our emotions, behaviours and relationships in the present day. Our work together can help you to understand the roots of your challenges and patterns and gain insights that will allow you to improve your life and relationships in the here-and-now.

Areas that I regularly work with:

• Affairs and Infidelity
• Anxiety
• Communication Difficulties
• Conflict and Arguments 
• Depression 
• Difference (culture, sexuality, religion)
• Divorce and Separation
• Feeling 'Stuck' in Your Relationship
• Grief and Loss
• Life Stage Challenges (moving in, parenthood, work, retirement, ageing)
• Loneliness
• Neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD)
• Repeating unhealthy patterns
• Self Esteem
• Sexual issues and intimacy 
• Separation and Divorce
• Shame and Guilt
• Trauma
• Trust 
• Work Related Issues

Professional Accreditations:

 BACP