Octavia Landy MBACP, UKCP

My approach to therapy is integrative and collaborative. This means I draw on a range of therapeutic models and ways of working, tailoring therapy to you as an individual rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. We work together to understand what you are bringing, what has shaped you, and what you need from therapy at this point in your life. I am transparent about how I work and will always explain the approaches I suggest, so that decisions about therapy feel shared, informed and empowering.

I work relationally, which means I see the therapeutic relationship itself as central to the work. Therapy is not something that is “done to” you, but something we create together. I aim to offer a space that is thoughtful, non-judgemental and emotionally attuned, where you can bring the parts of yourself that may not feel welcome elsewhere.

My practice is explicitly LGBTQ+ affirmative and anti-oppressive. I recognise the impact of living in a world shaped by heteronormativity, cisnormativity, ableism, racism and other systemic inequalities, and how these can intersect with mental health, identity, safety and belonging. I work in a way that actively affirms queer, trans and non-binary identities, and I am experienced in working with clients who hold multiple minoritised identities, including neurodivergent, disabled, migrant, sex worker and BIPOC clients.

I am also neurodiversity-affirming, and AuDHD myself, meaning I do not view neurodivergence as something to be “fixed” or normalised. Instead, we work to understand your nervous system, needs, strengths and coping strategies within the context of a world that is often not designed with neurodivergent people in mind.

The therapeutic approaches I draw on include integrative psychotherapy, attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, narrative approaches, and compassion-focused work. Where helpful, I also integrate psychoeducation and reflective practices to support insight, regulation and self-understanding. The emphasis is always on what is most useful and meaningful for you.

Alongside my therapy practice, I work as a welfare consultant and group facilitator in Film and Television, supporting individuals and teams working in high-pressure and trauma-exposed environments. I am currently completing a Doctorate in Psychotherapy (DPsych), with a research focus on vicarious trauma, emotional labour and cumulative stress. This informs my particular sensitivity to burnout, grief, secondary trauma and the emotional impact of caring roles and creative work.

I have experience supporting clients with grief and bereavement (including complex, traumatic and disenfranchised grief), trauma, identity exploration, emotional regulation, burnout, relational difficulties, shame, anxiety and major life transitions. I also work with people who are not in crisis but are seeking greater self-understanding, integration of identity, or a more values-aligned way of living. I also work with You Are Loved CIC as their bereavement support manager and facilitate the fortnightly online bereavement groups. 

I offer therapy to adults and work with clients online and in person, depending on location and preference. I understand that beginning therapy can feel daunting, and I aim to make the process as transparent and supportive as possible from the outset.

Therapy does not require something to be “wrong” with you. You might come because you are grieving, stuck, overwhelmed, or because you want space to reflect, understand yourself more deeply, or live with greater authenticity. Whatever brings you, my aim is to offer a respectful, containing space where your experiences are taken seriously and where change can happen at your pace.