Lucy McGivern - About Me

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People often ask what it’s like to be a therapist.

The honest answer is that it’s a privilege, one that I never take for granted. To be invited into someone’s inner world, to hear their story, and to witness the courage it takes to open up is deeply humbling.

Each of us experiences life in our own unique way, shaped by the events and relationships that have touched us. Whether you’re living with complex post-traumatic stress, general anxiety, or a lingering sense of isolation, there’s always a reason behind how you feel. My role is to help you explore those connections — linking past and present experiences in a way that brings understanding, relief, and new perspectives.

At the heart of my work is a commitment to creating a safe, confidential, and genuinely supportive space. Since qualifying, I’ve worked with people from many different backgrounds — in schools, prisons, homes, and workplaces — supporting those affected by trauma and a wide range of mental health difficulties. I’ve worked with survivors of road traffic accidents, childhood abuse, and critical incidents involving first responders. Every person’s story is unique, and I strive to offer care that reflects that individuality while remaining grounded in research and best-practice guidance from organisations such as NICE and the World Health Organisation.

I am trained in Trauma-Focused Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Exposure Therapy, and have extensive experience working with people who experience trauma, dissociation, and shame. My background includes working within the Berkshire Traumatic Stress Service and serving as the PTSD Lead within a local primary care IAPT service for several years.

Since 2010, I’ve worked across a range of NHS settings, including CAMHS, Primary Care, and Secondary Care. In private practice, I have a particular interest in supporting first responders — especially those in Fire and Rescue Services — who face unique challenges through their professional roles.

Qualifications and Experience

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Post Graduate Diploma

Person Centred Counselling (University of Brighton –  2004)
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Post Graduate Diploma

Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (University of Brighton – 2010)
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EMDR

EMDR Consultant (EMDR UK and Europe)
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EMDR

Attachment Focussed EMDR  (Laurel Parnell – 2019)
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EMDR

EMDR and IFS (Internal Family Systems) Annabel McGoldrick 20121
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Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy

Teacher training (Oxford Cognitive Therapy Centre – 2014)
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CBT Supervisor Training

(University of Southampton – 2014)
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Compassion Focussed Therapy

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Narrative Exposure Therapy