Vanessa Bear- Lancaster

I integrate a range of theories and techniques, including Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, body psychotherapy, Somatic Trauma Therapy, sand tray, play, and creativity. I'm also a qualified yoga teacher and forest school leader.

I've completed a variety of training courses in order to offer diverse interventions for the diverse parts of you, including somatic trauma therapy, mindfulness, sensorimotor art therapy for trauma, movement for trauma coaching, EMDR, eco-psychotherapy, image-work, and a variety of nature-based and nature connection trainings. Many of these are listed below.

I tend to interweave these kinds of creative, embodied, nature-connected, and mindful practices throughout my psychotherapeutic offering depending on each individual’s needs and preferences.

Sessions can take place indoors or outdoors, or a mixture of both. Sometimes outdoor sessions are slow or static, sometimes moving, sometimes in woodlands and sometimes in the fells depending on individual preference and availability.

Experience

I have experience of working in schools, CAMHS, GP practices, sexual and domestic abuse charities and private practice. I have experience of working with people of all ages who have experienced relational trauma, including physical, emotional and sexual abuse; PTSD; experiencing overwhelming emotions, such as panic or mood-swings; anxiety; low-mood; depression; grief; eco-anxiety and those wishing to explore their feelings and experience following a diagnosis such as ADD or ADHD.

I am a member of the Climate Psychology Alliance, “exploring psychological responses to the climate crisis to strengthen relationships and resilience for a just future”.

I co-authored the 8 Keys to Safe Trauma Recovery Workbook with international trauma specialist, Babette Rothschild, who I also assist with her trainings.

I also offer workshops and trainings for other helping professionals, including counsellors and psychotherapists on self-care and trauma-informed practice.