Elena | Relationship Therapist

Introduction

Hello, I am a BACP Accredited Psychotherapist and Counsellor, working full time in private practice with individuals and couples. I work in person and online, offering long term, short term and Single Session Therapy interventions.

In my approach to couples therapy, I draw on existential principles to help partners deepen their understanding of each other. One of the primary challenges in relationships is that we often don’t hear what our partner is truly saying; instead, we interpret their words through the lens of our own experiences, wounds, and fears. Existential therapy is uniquely suited for couples work because it encourages each partner to explore their own assumptions, values, and needs with honesty and openness. This "translation work" is essential for couples to communicate authentically and to understand each other at a deeper level.

Existential therapy also emphasises personal responsibility and freedom of choice. In the context of couples therapy, this means that each partner is encouraged to recognise their role in the dynamics of the relationship and to take responsibility for their reactions. By becoming aware of how they interpret and respond to their partner's words, each person can make informed decisions rather than reacting out of habit or past hurts. This process allows couples to respond to each other in ways that are more intentional and constructive.

Another core aspect of existential therapy is the focus on meaning and purpose. For couples, this involves identifying what each person needs from the relationship and how these needs align with their values and long-term goals. Together, we explore each partner's unique desires and priorities, helping them find ways to support each other’s personal growth while building a shared vision for the future.

Ultimately, my goal is to help couples focus on what is working well in the relationship and to build upon those strengths. At the same time, we address the challenges, working collaboratively to develop strategies for navigating conflicts and unmet needs. Existential therapy encourages a flexible and evolving view of relationships, allowing couples to grow together while respecting each partner’s individuality. This approach helps couples make meaningful, conscious choices about their relationship and fosters a deeper, more resilient connection.

I work flexibly with couples, offering a range of options to suit different needs and goals. This includes long-term therapy for deeper, ongoing work, short-term and solution-focused therapy for targeted concerns, and even single-session therapy for immediate clarity and support.

If you're interested in learning more about my approach or therapy in general, please feel free to reach out via the send a message - button and we can arrange an informal conversation.