Sarah Webster Psychotherapy

Core Process Psychotherapy is a mindfulness-based therapy which draws upon Buddhist understanding of the nature of mind, contemplative neuroscience and western psychodynamic theories of individual development. As a holistic and deeply relational approach, it embraces all aspects of our human experience – mind (cognitive), body (somatic) and spirit (transpersonal).

The term “core” refers to the freedom and wholeness, intrinsic to us all, that lies at the heart of our being. “Process” refers to the patterns and beliefs that shape our sense of self, often obscuring the inherent freedom of our true nature. These self-states are influenced by a wide range of factors, including our history (also ancestral trauma), early childhood experiences, family dynamics and socio-cultural influences, and can lead us to live lives identified with suffering and limitation.

Core Process Psychotherapy offers a powerful, non-pathologizing approach to addressing the diverse range of reasons that bring people to therapy. As a depth psychotherapy which seeks to bring the awakening power of meditation practice into relationship, this approach goes to the very heart of human experience. We are offered the possibility of reinterpreting how we perceive negative experiences and life circumstances, and instead transform them into valuable opportunities for growth and lasting change. 

As well as an enquiring deeply into mental processes, reconnecting with the wisdom of our bodies is central to this approach, including recognising how the body holds trauma and habitual patterns of tensions. Such patterning offers insights into how we feel about ourselves, others and the world. The spiritual nature of who we are is also acknowledged and worked with. This does not require adherence to any particular belief system but instead encourages direct experience of our true nature by drawing on the universal principles of awareness, compassion and authenticity.

I’m Sarah, a UKCP Core Process Psychotherapist in my final year of training. I offer long and short-term, relational support rooted in a compassionate and trauma-informed approach. I work with a wide range of issues and with people of different ages and backgrounds. I endeavour to work inclusively, with sensitivity to differences and a willingness to learn from each client I meet. In an atmosphere of acceptance and non-judgement, we will build a trusting partnership where - at your own pace - we can gently explore the patterns, experiences and emotional landscapes that shape your life. In our sessions, we may incorporate speech, breath, somatic enquiry, movement or stillness and silence to help you process the past, navigate present challenges, and look towards a future of greater freedom and possibility.

The sessions unfold relationally, meeting what arises with curiosity and openness in the moment. As we explore together, we allow space and listen for aspects that may need attention, expression or unblending, or for what may be unconscious (hidden or repressed) to surface. We offer awareness, without agenda or wanting to fix or change, simply meeting and welcoming what is, trusting the innate intelligence of whatever is arising.

By turning gentle attention toward the parts of ourselves that are suffering, we can begin to heal and discover new ways of being with ourselves, others and the world around us. In welcoming awareness in this way, inner conflicts and entrenched beliefs in the mind can loosen, and tensions and trauma held in the body can naturally dissolve, enabling energy and life force to flow freely once more. As this process unfolds, we find we have more agency, choice and creativity in how we engage with life.

Choosing to start, It is important to feel a sense of connection and safety with the therapist you choose to work with. I offer a free 30 minute introductory meeting for us to be able to get a feel for each other, discuss what brings you to therapy, your hopes, concerns or any questions you may have. If working together feels right, we would usually agree to meet for an six sessions, and then review how things are going. After that, we might decide to work in an open-ended way, or shorter term for an agreed number of sessions.

Psychotherapy sessions are held weekly, at the same time. I welcome clients in person at my private practice in Tring and Aylesbury, or online via Zoom.

Fees are £55 for weekly one hour sessions. Limited concessional places are available so please ask me about this if this is relevant to you.