Catherine

Before my first session with Elizabeth, I was apprehensive about engaging with the process of Trauma-Focussed CBT. I had been diagnosed with PTSD and the condition was affecting my daily life significantly. I felt vulnerable, exhausted and emotional. I was experiencing physical anxiety, intrusive thoughts and other symptoms, which often felt overwhelming and made it difficult for me to function. I did not know what to expect, and found the prospect of taking part in CBT a scary one. 

After meeting with Elizabeth for the first time, she was able to reassure me and gave me an outline of what would be involved. I felt safe from the outset with Elizabeth, and sensed that I would be able to work with her in an environment which would be encouraging and enlightening.
The sessions were challenging for me, and I could not have continued the therapy without the clear, compassionate guidance and professional expertise given to me by Elizabeth. Working through the stages with weekly ‘homework’ provided a structure to the therapy, which was invaluable. 

As my therapy progressed, there were times when the emotions that surfaced during the sessions were extremely painful and demanding. Elizabeth was sensitive, kind, and firm; supporting me to stay with the feelings and remain engaged with myself. There were tears and moments of humour as we moved through the various stages of TF-CBT.

My therapy sessions with Elizabeth have been invaluable and far-reaching, and I cannot fully express my thanks to her for helping me to face this challenge and work through to the conclusion of the sessions. 

The experience of Elizabeth’s sessions has been cathartic, and the benefits profound and life-changing. I have felt a palpable sense of relief as I have begun to feel compassion for myself. I have been enabled to experience peaceful, refreshing sleep for the first time in a very long while. 
Throughout the entire process, I never felt judged, and I did not feel alone. The trust that Elizabeth was able to establish was pivotal to the journey that I have undertaken. I feel like ‘me’ again! I am in a completely different place now, and I would encourage other people who are going through similar experiences to gain the support that I did. I could not recommend Elizabeth highly enough, and it is my privilege to provide this testimonial for Elizabeth Preston.