Dawn Summers

I obtained my MSc in Family & Systemic Psychotherapy seven years ago. Prior to this I had over thirty years’ experience as a nurse in the NHS. The majority of this time I worked as a community palliative care nurse specialist, caring and supporting patients with advanced cancer, and their families. Since qualifying as Family Psychotherapist, I have been employed by a charity to provide Family therapy sessions to families/ couples who have experienced or been affected by violence and abuse. This valuable experience has allowed me to hone my skills and understanding and to help families who find themselves in a wide range of challenging situations.

Families are constantly having to adapt and respond to changes in their family life cycle, life events and traumatic experiences. Sometimes families can feel overwhelmed in managing this and can feel stuck in knowing how to move forward and find themselves in repeating patterns of unhelpful communication or behaviour. Family therapy aims to help everyone in the family to overcome communication difficulties. Having a safe environment can create the opportunity for families to share their experiences, emotions and perspectives with each other. This has the potential for families to have a better understanding of each other and establish different ways of relating and responding to one another.

When considering who might attend family sessions a “family”, can be described as whoever you identify as Important and recognize them as your family i.e. children, partner, parents/career, extended family members and friends.

I am aware that it is a very big step for families considering therapy and families can feel anxious about what to expect. Sessions where young children will be attending will involve the use of art and play based techniques, in the sessions. I would be happy to have a conversation with you prior to any sessions to discuss in more depth about what sessions would involve and how we might work together.

I am a registered member of the UK Council for Psychotherapy. I have a professional membership with The Association of Family Therapy.

I have regular Clinical Supervision and participate in training events and CPD activities as part of an annual requirement for registration for the UKCP

My fees are currently £130 per session.