Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing is a courageous step.
I would be honoured to guide you through this transformative process.
I understand how it feels to live in a world that doesn’t feel like it was made for you.
I know what it’s like to feel like an outsider.
I can relate to the experience of complex family dynamics and identity issues.
You are not alone!
It’s my promise that I will help you feel listened to and understood. I’ll hold space for you. I’ll validate your unique experiences and perspectives. I’ll also bring all my sensitivity to whatever experiences and struggles you may be coming to me with.
— Esther Emanuel
Psychotherapist, NLP Master Practitioner, Hypnotherapist, Reiki Master, and Artist.
Welcome to Intercultural Therapy
For many second-generation ethnic minority people, which are most of my clients, the issue is not only “Who am I?” but also “How am I going to express myself authentically?”
You may have grown up feeling that you couldn’t be yourself or that you weren’t going to be accepted. From your hair to the way you express yourself or even the tone of your voice. You may also have had that feeling – that you won’t get that job or be accepted by friends or colleagues if you show up, just the way you are.
Now, people are getting more vocal about wanting to be comfortable being themselves. But if you’ve spent so many years overriding your true nature, it can be challenging to come back home to the real you. This can lead to identity issues, anxiety, depression, trauma and more.
In a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space,
we can begin to explore your experiences and beliefs. You’ll gain new clarity, see yourself with more loving eyes, and release anything that no longer serves you.
My Story
Growing up, I lived in a small village in England as well as in various parts of Africa. Traversing these two cultures and parts of the world in my formative years gave me a depth of understanding that I can bring to my clients with diverse backgrounds too.
I was a quiet and sensitive child who sensed and thought about everything deeply. I struggled to find someone who would truly hear me and get me. Knowing how this felt inspires me to hold space for others to be heard in the way that I longed for.
I wasn’t always a therapist. My dream job as a kid was to be a writer of plays, poetry and or prose. (I also secretly wanted to be a magician!) But my Dad dismissed my idea of going on to study English and Literary Studies. He was of the opinion that accountancy would be better for me, as I am good with figures.
Fast forward to my first few months working in the field after graduation and I couldn’t take it anymore. So, I walked out of work, never to return.
I know what it feels like to be living out of alignment with my truth. We so often follow the path our families expect us to lead. It takes risk to follow your own heart and live more authentically and wholeheartedly, but I promise you, it’s worth it! I ended up going back to university to study for a master’s degree in psychotherapy.
Everything was so exciting!
Everything came alive.
I realised this was where I should’ve been in the first place.
That was 25 years ago now and it taught me that sometimes it’s a winding road to finding our truth. It’s okay if you’re still working yourself out and where you fit in the world. Even if it’s taking you longer than expected, there is nothing wrong with you.
I look forward to helping you navigate your own path too!
My Qualifications
- I’ve supported thousands of clients over the last 25 years.
- UKCP Psychotherapist – MA in Group & Intercultural Therapy (Goldsmiths College, University of London)
- UKCP Psychotherapist – Certificate in Group Psychotherapy (Goldsmiths College, University of London)
- Clinical Hypnotherapist – Diploma in Clinical Hypnosis (Paul Mckenna and London College of Clinical Hypnosis)
- Master Practitioner of NLP – Member of the Society of NLP (Richard Bandler and Paul Mckenna)
- Certified Time-Line Therapist & NLP Coach (The Performance Partnership, London)
- EMDR (London College of Clinical Hypnosis)
- I am also a private healthcare provider for BUPA, Aviva, AXA, Vitality, Cigna and WPA. I have been made aware that Westfield Health and Health Shield will reimburse the costs of hypnotherapy.
My Values
Authenticity and Integrity
I promise to be true to my word and transparent in all my undertakings with you. I also promise to act with the utmost integrity – as dictated/ directed by the ethics of my profession.
Caring Deeply
I promise to care about you and to handle all that is shared between us in the therapeutic space with the utmost confidentiality, sensitivity and care.
Listening Deeply
I promise to to be emotionally present for our sessions and to listen to you with an open-heart and without judgement or bias.
Sensitivity & Inclusivity
I promise to stay committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming space for clients of all backgrounds. Sensitivity and Inclusivity reflect not just to what I do but who I am.
Creativity and Expression
I promise to honour your innate need for self-expression and to assist you in finding your own voice and unique expression.
In my spare time, I’m also a mixed-media artist.
Whilst growing up, I never thought that art was something I’d be passionate about – or be good at. But as I reflect on my life and on how it’s unfolded, I realise that if I hadn’t lived this long, I’d never have known I could paint. Being alive and on this journey called life, means we are continually evolving.
Book a free call
Curious about therapy with me? I’d love to have a 15-minute chat to see if we’re a good fit.