Dr. Sara Hagerman

I am a HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist, as well as a BACP registered Counsellor/Psychotherapist. My training as a Psychologist and Therapist is in Pluralistic Therapy, which is a collaborative approach that integrates different theories and skills, and is guided primarily by the direction of the client, as well as by the current psychotherapeutic evidence base. In other words, we work on what you think is important – in the way that best suits you. This does however not mean that I work passively, and will always offer input and guidance based on my experience and knowledge.

I also have further training in Psychosexual Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), as well as being trained as a supervisor for other therapists.

I have worked and trained extensively within a wide range of settings, including universities, research centres, charities and cancer care, as well as NHS primary care and NHS secondary care. Within these settings I have worked with a multitude of issues and presenting difficulties, including working within specialised services for complex trauma, interpersonal difficulties, and refugee support.

My doctoral research was focused on the relationship people have with a diagnosis of “chronic depression”, and I am particularly interested in issues surrounding pathologization of suffering and trauma, and its potential impact on identity.

I also have extensive private practice experience with concerns surrounding sexuality and sexual function, gender identity, relationship identity (including ethical non-monogamy variations and polyamory), as well as a myriad of other themes that may lead to an individual or a couple wanting to seek out therapeutic support or guidance.

When I meet a new client I will draw from all of the above in making an informed and joint decision on how we can best work together to help you address the changes you wish to achieve.