Jo Dobson Barker

I’m Jo, a psychotherapeutic counsellor specialising in Gestalt psychotherapy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, low, or unsure where to turn next, therapy can offer a space to slow down and truly be met. Many of my clients tell me that the simple experience of being deeply heard and understood is what begins meaningful change in their lives.

I work in-person on Thursdays, a 1-minute walk from Highbury & Islington station at HQ Therapy Highbury Fields. I also offer a free 50-minute in-person consultation, giving you the chance to experience what it might feel like for us to work together before committing.

How therapy with me can help

In our sessions, I support you to:

• Understand what you’re feeling in the moment so life becomes less confusing and more manageable
• Gain clarity about your hopes, fears and patterns
• Reconnect with your body and the signals it may be sending
• Build the support you need in your relationships and wider world
• Experiment with new ways of thinking, relating and acting so life can feel more flexible, spacious and choiceful

Clients often come to me when they’re experiencing:

• Anxiety, depression or low self-worth
• Feeling stuck or disconnected
• Stress, burnout or emotional overwhelm
• Identity questions or life transitions
• Difficulties in relationships
• The impact of past relationships, trauma or experiences of marginalisation

Who I work with

I have particular experience in supporting people exploring neurodiversity, queerness, sexuality, and masculinity. I’ve worked as a therapist in community organisations and for public sector mental health, and I welcome a diverse range of clients.

My work is grounded in an understanding that your experiences are shaped not just by your personal history but also by the world around you. Issues relating to class, race, gender and identity are always welcome in the room, and I meet clients with respect, equality and genuine curiosity.

My approach
Research shows that the quality of the relationship between therapist and client is the strongest predictor of meaningful change. Gestalt therapy focuses on how we relate—to ourselves, to others and to our environment. Together we explore the patterns, beliefs and emotional habits formed through past relationships, and how they continue to shape your present life.

My background includes research and teaching in philosophy before training as a therapist at the Metanoia Institute. I continue to learn and develop my practice to offer a grounded, warm and thoughtful therapeutic space.

Initial session
I offer a free introductory meeting so you can get a sense of whether working together feels right. You can choose between:

• a 15-minute phone call, or
• a 50-minute in-person introductory session

Fees
I offer weekly therapy, short- or long-term, depending on your needs.
Sessions cost £80 for 50 minutes, and I have a limited number of lower-cost slots for people on lower incomes.