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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 to alleviate 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. I also use creative ways of working, for example through art and writing. Although, my training has been in the Buddhist tradition, your way of making sense of your experience is always our point of reference.

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.

 

I specialise in supporting individuals through major life transitions and decisions, including relationship breakups, career, spiritual or personal direction challenges, coping with bereavement, and identity struggles. My approach is particularly helpful for those who have already done some personal development or therapy but seek deeper change. It’s ideal for people who are self-aware but feel stuck in their heads, struggle with anxiety, or find themselves trapped in cycles of overthinking. 

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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