My story...
I grew up in Liverpool, a place known for its strong sense of identity, culture, and connection. From an early age, I developed a curiosity about people, communication, and the ways in which we make sense of the world around us. That curiosity initially took shape through language. I first came across the term existentialism in French class in school, little did I know how significant that would become in my life down the line!
I became a language learner, at times enthusiastic sometimes reluctant, but always drawn to what language represents beyond words: identity, culture, and belonging. Over time, this developed into a passion for languages and communication, leading me to become a language teacher. My work gave me the opportunity to travel extensively and live abroad, exposing me not only to different cultures, but to different ways of thinking, relating, and understanding the self.
I worked teaching ESOL to refugees and migrants. Meeting people and hearing their migration stories how they were similar and different to mine highlighted how language is often intertwined with deeper existential concerns: who we are, where we fit, and how we make sense of our experiences.
I decided to retrain as a therapist and whilst doing that took an office-based role, which offered stability but also brought its own set of questions around purpose, direction, and fulfilment. It was during this time that I began to reflect more seriously on my own path and the kind of work I wanted to be doing.
Today, my work is shaped by all of these experiences. My background in languages and intercultural living informs how I understand identity, communication, and relationships, particularly for those navigating life across cultures. My academic and personal engagement with existential ideas underpins how I approach therapy, particularly when working with clients facing questions around meaning, direction, and purpose.
I now work in private practice, supporting individuals experiencing existential crises, as well as intercultural couples navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with different cultural frameworks. My approach is grounded in the belief that many of the struggles people face are not problems to be fixed, but experiences to be understood, explored, and integrated.
Across my work, there is a consistent thread: an interest in how people make sense of themselves and their place in the world, especially when that sense feels uncertain, fragmented, or in transition
What is an Existential Crisis?
Human life is shaped not only by practical concerns, such as work, relationships, and daily responsibilities, but also by deeper, more abstract questions about existence itself. We ask ourselves: What is the purpose of my life? Who am I, really? What does it mean to be free? What happens when I die? These existential concerns can be defined as the awareness of mortality, freedom, isolation, and the search for meaning.
In modern society, awareness of death is often both heightened and hidden. Media coverage of global crises, pandemics, and conflict can make mortality more visible. At the same time, cultural practices often avoid direct discussion of death. This can create a tension between awareness and avoidance. However, death also motivates us to do things. When we think of modern pop culture slogans such as YOLO (you only live once) and bucket lists, it encourages us to do things and not put them off. Death can also take on the form decisions which we look back on and mourn through regret, like our elders telling us that they wish they had done things differently or not sacrificed part of themselves for the path they eventually took in life.
Existential isolation refers to the idea that, at a fundamental level, each individual is alone and must decide how to live. Although people can form relationships and connections, no one can fully share another person’s experience. This creates a sense of separation that cannot be entirely overcome. This is distinct from social loneliness. A person may have many relationships and still feel existentially isolated. The concern arises from the recognition that our inner world is ultimately private and inaccessible to others.
In modern society, this concern can be intensified by certain conditions. For example, increased mobility, remote work, and digital communication may reduce opportunities for deep, face-to-face interaction. Whilst technology allows for constant connection, it does not always provide meaningful connection. Social media can also contribute to this dynamic. Despite the fact that it offers a sense of visibility and interaction, it may also create a gap between how individuals present themselves and how they actually feel. This can reinforce feelings of isolation.
The search for meaning is another central existential concern. We humans have a natural tendency to seek purpose and coherence in our lives. When this sense of meaning is absent or unclear, we may experience what is often described as an “existential vacuum.” This can manifest as feelings of emptiness, boredom, or lack of direction. As a consequence, we may question the value of our actions or the purpose of our lives. In some cases, this can lead to depression or disengagement.
Modern society presents both opportunities and challenges in relation to meaning. On the one hand, we have greater freedom to define our own values and goals. On the other hand, the absence of shared frameworks or traditions can make it more difficult to establish a clear sense of purpose. Work, relationships, and personal achievements are often used as sources of meaning. However, these sources may not always provide lasting fulfilment. For example, career success may bring satisfaction, but it may not address deeper questions about purpose.
Another central existential concern is freedom. Existential thinkers argue that humans are fundamentally free to make choices about their lives. However, this freedom is accompanied by responsibility. Individuals must take ownership of their decisions and their consequences. Whilst freedom is often seen as desirable, it can also be experienced as a burden. The absence of fixed structures or clear guidance can create uncertainty and anxiety. This is sometimes referred to as “existential anxiety” or “angst”.
An example of this concern can be seen in career decisions. In modern societies, individuals are often presented with a wide range of choices regarding education, work, and lifestyle. Whilst this can be empowering, it can also create pressure to make the “right” choice. The possibility of regret or failure can lead to indecision or avoidance.
Why Me?
How will we work together?
If you are wondering: What do I need a therapist to help me with all this for, surely, I can do this on my own in my own time? Whilst you might try to figure things out on the train to work, at the gym running on the treadmill or late at night in bed before falling asleep, you are actually just ruminating.
In therapy, we will explore your lived experience, how you feel, think, and relate to the world around you. Together, we’ll look at the ways your life aligns (or doesn’t) with what you truly value, helping you identify gaps that may be leaving you feeling stuck or unfulfilled. We’ll also explore patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and relationships that may be holding you back, and work toward choices that feel authentic, meaningful, and in line with who you really are.
I provide a safe, non-judgmental online space where you can talk openly and honestly, but expect to be challenged. Here, you’ll be listened to sincerely, and we’ll work together to make sense of life’s big questions, but I won’t sit back silently and passively. If you’re feeling lost, uncertain about who you are, or overwhelmed by the challenges and choices life presents, then let me help you find direction, purpose, and a clearer sense of self.
All sessions take place online and are fully shaped around what feels most important to you. It is a space where both practical concerns and deeper reflections are welcomed. We work at a pace that feels right for you, whether your goal is to gain clarity, find emotional relief, or pursue longer-term personal growth. Throughout the process, the focus is always on supporting you to live in a way that feels true to yourself and meaningful in your everyday life.