North London & South Hertfordshire

Serving local communities with care

Meet Carolyn

“Whatever your life experiences or personal story, you will be met with respect, empathy and curiosity. My aim is to offer a warm, inclusive therapeutic space where you can feel safe, genuinely heard and accepted without judgement.”

I am a qualified psychodynamic therapist and BACP registered member. Alongside my therapy practice, I have worked in education for over 25 years, giving me particular insight into stress, anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, self-doubt and the pressures of work, relationships and everyday life.

All about Carolyn

I am a qualified psychodynamic therapist and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). My professional background has given me particular insight into the pressures experienced by teachers, those working in education, and people in creative professions, while also deepening my understanding that emotional difficulties can affect anyone, regardless of background or stage of life…

Alongside my therapy practice, I have worked in education for over 25 years. During this time, I have supported children, young people, families and colleagues through many of life’s challenges. This has given me a deep appreciation of the emotional impact of stress, anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, self-doubt and the pressures of balancing work, relationships and everyday life.

Working in education has strengthened my ability to build trusting relationships and create a calm, compassionate environment where people feel genuinely heard, understood and accepted. It has also given me particular insight into the unique challenges faced by those working in education and other caring professions, while recognising that every person’s experiences are different.

Alongside my work in education, I also have a background in music, which has given me first-hand insight into the demands of creative and performance-based environments. I understand the pressures that can accompany creativity, identity, performance, self-expression and high expectations. This enables me to work sensitively with people in creative professions, while recognising that these themes can resonate with many people regardless of their background.

Above all, I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is at the heart of meaningful therapy. My aim is to offer a warm, thoughtful and collaborative space where you feel safe enough to explore whatever has brought you to therapy. Feeling genuinely listened to, understood and accepted—without judgement—creates the foundation for lasting emotional growth and change.

I warmly welcome people from all backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, faiths, sexual orientations, gender identities and relationship styles. Whatever your life experiences or personal story, you will be met with respect, empathy and curiosity. I am committed to providing an inclusive therapeutic space where you can feel safe to be yourself and where your individuality is valued.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s important that you find someone you feel comfortable talking to. If you’d like to arrange an initial conversation or have any questions about how I work, I’d be pleased to hear from you. Together, we can explore whether working together feels like the right fit for you.

My Values & Approach

The principles that guide my therapeutic practice and relationship with clients

Compassion

Every person's journey is unique and deserves to be met with kindness, understanding, and genuine care.

Safety

Creating a secure, confidential space where you can explore difficult feelings without fear of judgment.

Respect

Honoring your autonomy, cultural background, and personal values throughout our work together.

Growth

Believing in your innate capacity for healing, change, and personal development.

Collaboration

Working together as partners in your therapeutic journey, at your pace and according to your goals.

Authenticity

Encouraging genuine self-expression and helping you connect with your true self.

Experience & Qualifications

BACP Registered Member

Since 2026

Committed to the highest professional standards and ongoing professional development.

Ongoing Professional Development

Regular supervision, training workshops, and continuing education to ensure the highest quality of care.

Professional Memberships

BACP

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy

UKCP

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy

Who I Help

I work with adults facing a wide range of life challenges and mental health concerns

Young Adults (18-30)

Navigating identity, relationships, career decisions, and life transitions

Working Professionals

Managing stress, burnout, work-life balance, and career challenges

Parents & Families

Parenting challenges, family dynamics, and relationship difficulties

Those Experiencing Loss

Grief, bereavement, and processing significant life changes

Anxiety & Depression

Supporting those struggling with mood disorders and anxiety conditions

Trauma Survivors

Gentle support for processing difficult past experiences

What Sessions Feel Like

Creating a therapeutic environment where you feel comfortable, safe, and truly understood

Warm & Welcoming

A comfortable, peaceful environment where you can relax and be yourself

Truly Heard

Active listening without judgment, giving you space to express yourself freely

Your Pace

We move at a pace that feels right for you, with no pressure or rushing

Gentle Insights

Thoughtful questions and reflections to help you gain new perspectives

"Many clients tell me that our sessions feel like a conversation with a trusted friend - except this friend happens to be professionally trained to help you understand yourself better."

Carolyn Stevenson

Psychotherapist & Counsellor

First Time in Therapy?

It’s completely normal to feel nervous about starting therapy. Here’s what you can expect:

No Pressure

You only share what feels comfortable. There's no pressure to discuss anything you're not ready for.

Ask Questions

Feel free to ask about my approach, the process, or anything else that would help you feel more comfortable.

You're in Control

You decide what to work on and when you're ready to end therapy.

Ready to Take the First Step?

I offer a brief 15-minute phone consultation to discuss your needs and answer any questions you might have. No obligation, just an opportunity to see if we might be a good fit.