Sheela Hollywood (my pronouns are She/Her)

About me

As an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor, I am calm, open and confident in my work. Whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, I will offer a safe, non-judgemental space where we can explore the difficulties you are facing. I believe our trusting and respectful relationship is the foundation for the peace, change and growth you seek.

I understand choosing a therapist can be a daunting experience, and often at a time of great vulnerability. I offer a free, 15-minute introductory call, to help you decide whether I am the right therapist for you. You can ask any questions you have about me, or the therapeutic process here.

I work with individuals, both face to face and online, either open-ended or for an agreed time. Sessions are usually held weekly and at the same time. In-person sessions are from discreet, welcoming rooms overlooking Twickenham Green, online sessions are held over Zoom. You do not need an app for this, just an internet connection, I will send you a personal link that will open our video meeting.

Training, qualifications & experience

I have a MSc in Humanistic Psychotherapy from the Metanoia Institute, accredited by the UKCP, and as a registered member I adhere strictly to the UKCP Code of Ethics. I am fully DBS checked and my personal indemnity insurance is with Oxygen.

Alongside my private practice I run the Counselling Service within the Disability organisation, Richmond AID. There, I manage qualified and trainee counsellors and psychotherapists, and am passionate about their clinical development through empowerment, sharing knowledge and developing training plans for the betterment of the profession. I have a deep interest in social justice issues and sit on a working group for Equity, Diversity and Intersectionality (EDI) which informs UK psychotherapy training institutions.

I have a background in the arts which informs my therapeutic work, and I drew upon this throughout my years in frontline mental health at the charity Mind. Working within Mind’s Crisis Prevention service, I supported women and men struggling with severe and enduring mental health difficulties, engaging with them on a one-to-one basis as well as running groups. These groups ranged from the explorative, Creative Writing, to the psychoeducational Recovery from Trauma. This time offered me a deep insight into the myriad ways distress can present itself, cementing the trauma informed bedrock of my work.