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A bit about me...

I am passionate about psychotherapy because it provides a safe, compassionate space to explore the most significant themes of your life, especially those areas where you may feel stuck. My journey has always been shaped by big existential questions—why we are here, what life is for, the search for meaning, and how we can live more authentically. These questions have guided both my personal growth and professional path.

I have held front-line and management roles in community development and public health, served as a trustee, and contributed to educational advisory bodies. Most recently, I led programs aimed at alleviating poverty in some of the most disadvantaged communities in the UK. Working with people from diverse backgrounds has given me valuable insight into how personal, social, and political forces intersect. 

As an ordained Buddhist practitioner, I bring over 15 years of experience teaching and participating in intensive meditation, study retreats, courses, and groups into my therapy practice. This spiritual foundation allows me to seamlessly integrate mindfulness, meditation, and compassion-focused approaches into my therapeutic work. While my training is rooted in the Buddhist tradition, our focus is always on your unique way of understanding and making sense of your experience.

I’m passionate about Gestalt therapy because of its holistic, relational, and body-oriented approach to human flourishing. I believe true healing and growth go beyond changing our thoughts—while important, thinking alone is not enough.

 

My approach is especially beneficial for people who are self-aware but feel stuck in their heads, experience anxiety, or find themselves caught in patterns of overthinking. I also support those grieving or facing a life-limiting illnessconfronting spiritual or religious challenges, or standing at a crossroads in life and seeking clarity on the next step. Additionally, I help those navigating trauma, depression and shame who may feel unsure of where to turn.

I live in the Peak District, where I find joy in running and walking with my beloved dog, Tom (him in the picture). 

Take the first step and get in touch for a free exploratory chat to see how I might be able to help you. 

Training and Ethics 

I have completed four years of Accredited Gestalt Psychotherapy Training* from the Manchester Gestalt Centre, which is a registered training institute of the United Kingdom Council of Psychotherapy (UKCP), the official body for the training and registration of psychotherapists. 

 

I'm insured to practice and work to the Codes of Ethics and Practice of the GPTI (Gestalt Psychotherapy Training Institute) which operates under the umbrella of the UKCP.

I store your information according to the latest GDPR regulations.

*Currently awaiting final accreditation

Image by Thomas Martinsen

Paul Whitehead
Tel: 07921 823926

E-mail: paulwhiteheadtherapy@gmail.com

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