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City Sanctuary Therapy - Dr. Joyline Gozho

Counselling, Psychotherapy, CBT and Couples Therapy in London Bridge, City of London,

Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, and Online

Welcome to City Sanctuary Therapy

A confidential space to explore the thoughts, feelings and challenges in your life

Psychodynamic Counselling, Psychotherapy, Couples Therapy, and CBT Therapy

How can counselling and psychotherapy help you?

If you can relate to, or identify with any of the following issues, I hope I can be of some help to you making a difference in your life and those around you.

Please get in touch if you feel I can help.

Individuals

  • Do you feel stressed, anxious, and unable to stop your thoughts?
  • Are you stuck in negative cycles that stop you from reaching your full potential in relationships, and other life situations?
  • Are you faced with a difficult situation, maybe at work, or in a relationship and needing some time to reflect on, and process your feelings in a safe environment?
  • Are you disturbed by thoughts and feelings that you cannot make sense of?
  • Do you need help finding ways of managing difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviors?
  • Have you suffered a significant loss through death of relationship breakdown, and in need a safe space to grieve and process your deeply painful feelings?
  • Do you feel empty, sad, and find life unrewarding and meaningless despite all your efforts?
  • Do you feel worthless, dejected, lacking confidence, or simply not good enough?
  • Did you experience adverse childhood experiences, such as parental divorce/relationship breakdown, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, neglect) bullying, not validated or nurtured as a child?
  • Was your childhood spelt by (repeated) home moves to new cities/towns or immigration to foreign countries, and in adulthood you find it difficult to form healthy emotional bonds or trusting people?
  • Do you have trouble switching off, or maybe rely on alcohol or illicit substances to control the way you feel?
  • Do you feel stuck with a work related or personal life situation which you need help thinking through and decision make?
  • Do you feel like you are at a cross roads in life, and uncertain about your life path?
  • Does your life simply feel meaningless and void?

Couples

Are you experiencing any of these issues in your relationship?

  • Communication
  • Betrayal
  • Commitment issues
  • Trust issues
  • Making major life decisions
  • Anger management
  • Stress-related issues
  • Conflict avoidance
  • Conflict management
  • Negative patterns that undermines the relationship
  • Co-dependency
  • Relationship loss
  • Loss of role
  • Loss of passion
  • Loss of sexual intimacy
  • Desire issues- loss of desire & discrepancies
  • Parenting issues
  • Dealing with step children and step parenting
  • Dealing with ex-partners
  • Considering divorce or separation
  • Considering reconciling after a break up
  • Culture clashes
  • Life transitions
  • Life decision making
  • Illness and sickness of one partner
  • Illness and sickness of both partners
  • Premarital counselling
  • Reassessing and reevaluating your values
  • Misalignment in faith, religion & spirituality

About Me

My name is Dr Joyline Gozho. I am a highly experienced psychotherapist, counsellor, and couples therapist. I specialise in individual and couples therapy. I have been practicing as a therapist for many years, helping people with a wide range of problems, and difficulties. I am registered with UKCP as a Psychotherapist, and I am accredited by the NCPS (COSRT) as a Relationship Therapist. I trust that by browsing my site, you will have a better understanding of what therapy is, the different types of therapies that I offer (Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Couples Therapy, Relationship Enrichment Workshops), and consider whether I can be of any help to you or your loved one.

Apart from being a Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I am a lecturer at the Institute of Couples Therapy where l teach on the post qualifying couples therapy training course. My previous lecturing role was at Birkbeck University of London where I taught on the Msc in Adult Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy Course, for 6 years.

l am part of Number42 Group practice www.number42.org.uk. based in Borough.


I am highly experienced and use Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modalities. I tailor therapy to suit my clients’ needs. The psychodynamic approach is analytic, which gives us more depth, making connections between the past and the present, while CBT is a pragmatic approach which gives us tools and strategies to navigate any issues causing challenges in your day to day life. I also work with couples who may be going through some difficulties in their relationship, seeking professional help to navigate their way in the relationship. My approach to couples work is informed by the Bader- Pearson model, which has its origins in psychoanalytic and attachment theories, as well as the Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills (PAIRS) approach. I am therefore able to resourcefully draw on principles from any of these modalities to suit your needs. I run relationship enrichment workshops with a particular focus on helping couples develop healthy communication skills, emotional literacy, and learning healthy ways of resolving conflict. Healthy communication skills and robust conflict resolution skills are the backbone of a healthy romantic relationship- please visit the Relationship Enrichment Workshops page of this website for further details on these workshops. I also run clinical workshops for counsellors, psychotherapists and trainees- please visit the clinical workshop page of this website for more information.

In the initial consultation session, we will explore your difficulties, and identify the best way forward. I work on an open-ended basis, or for an agreed time period. I also offer one off consultative therapy sessions which are highly useful to people with demanding lifestyles, and unable to commit to regular psychotherapy sessions.

I am registered with Cigna, Axa, Aviva, Vitality, Healix, and WPA, and recognised as a Healthcare Provider.

Feel free to browse my blogs on the blog page of this website, where you will find a range of reader friendly articles l have written on topics around mental health in general, psychotherapy, and relationships. The purpose of these blogs is to unpack, demystify, and develop a new way of thinking about and conceptualising mental (ill) health, reclaiming it from the dominant medical approach where normal human suffering is pathologised, and seen as a disease. The key aim is to create a dialogue between the two paradigms- medical (diagnostic) and the non medical (relational)- where they can co-exist, holding the complexity in mind, and not work against each other. This reflects my approach to therapy, which is non pathologising, client focused, psychoanalytic, trauma informed, and relational. The topics on relationships are meant to allow a deeper exploration of the complex nature of relationships; the why and how they can become a source of distress and pain, not a source of joy and fulfilment. This is hugely significant, as we are indeed relational beings, yet none of us has a blueprint of "how to do healthy relationships". Relationships dysfunction, discrodant relationships, and relationship break downs are key sources of distress, reflected by the reasons why many people approach therapy. I try to keep the articles jargon free, and add some tips and strategies in each article to make them more meaningful. Please note that these articles do not constitute medical advice, please see a health professional if you are in need of professional advice.

Out of the 40+ blogs l have written so far, l am delighted to have written about some of the topical subjects in the world we currently live in such as:

  1. Understanding high functioning depression
  2. Understanding co-dependency in romantic relationships
  3. Dealing with toxic familial relationships
  4. Sibling rivalry: Navigating unhealthy sibling relationships
  5. Vacillators in romantic relationships
  6. Victim Mentality in romantic relationships
  7. Emotions and Crying: Embracing your full self through crying
  8. Importance of sleep in mental health
  9. Adverse childhood experiences-childhood traumas
  10. Why some people struggle with emotions: Nature vs nurture
  11. Understanding Dementia and tips for patients and carers
  12. 17 signs that someone may be struggling with their mental health
  13. Growth and the environment
  14. Trauma in Women's gynaecological issues
  15. Loneliness in the 21st century
  16. How to cope with Seasonal Affective Disorder
  17. Navigating University Life
  18. Dealing with emotional abuse in relationships
  19. Toxic Positivity
  20. Pop Psychology and being human
  21. Understanding parentification
  22. Controllers in romantic relationships
  23. Ghosting and online dating
  24. Coparenting after divorce or separation
  25. Covid loss and grief
  26. Why do people go to therapy
  27. Why l don't wish you a merry Christmas, but a gentle one
  28. Embracing childlessness
  29. How to deal with breadcrumbing in the dating space
  30. 9 tips to improve psychological well-being in older adults
  31. Thinking of starting therapy? Tips on how to find the right fit
  32. Self-care tips for those who are unable to access therapy
  33. I don't go by the rule book, l lead from the heart: Remembering the life of Princess Diana
  34. Tips on navigating income discrepancies in romantic relationships
  35. Navigating University life and mental health: Tips for students and parents
  36. Supporting women’s mental well-being in high pressure careers

Feel free to give me any feedback, and topic requests via my email or through the enquiry link below.


Read more about my qualifications here

Issues I can help with

People come to me for help a wide range of issues. Below you'll find a list of the difficulties I have helped clients with:

Panic Attacks

Anxiety

Depression and low mood

Addiction and dependency

Anger

Guilt

Shame

Rejection

Loss and bereavement

Major life decisions

Eating disorders

Chronic Physical ill health

Identity crisis

Poor self esteem

Insomnia and fatigue

Post traumatic stress

Mood swings

Unresolved childhood issues

Fertility issues

Communication difficulties

Betrayal and Trust

Conflict resolution

Infidelity and cheating

Childhood sexual, physical, emotional abuse and neglect (trauma)

Family issues

Codependency

Parenting issues

Loss

Bereavement

My location

I practice from 2 different locations - City of London at Number 42 Well Being Practice, Borough High Street and in Willen, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire.

The central London practice is right outside London Bridge Tube Station, taking the Borough High Street exit. It is also close to Southwark Tube Station, Borough Tube Station, Waterloo station, Tower Bridge, South Bank, and Bermondsey.

This London area is well serviced by National Rail, Underground, London Buses, and Taxis. The practice is also very close to the overhead trains stations, and the Thames River Boat Services.

The Milton Keynes psychotherapy and CBT practice is easily accessible by car, public transport and walking from nearby villages.


I also offer sessions over Zoom, Skype or Telephone. These sessions are scheduled in the same fashion as face to face sessions.

Fees

Psychodynamic Counselling

Individuals - £100/hr


Couples - £135/hr


Pyschodynamic Pyschotherapy

Individuals - £100/hr


Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Individuals - £100/hr

Consultation

Standard - £120/hr

Couples Therapy

Standard - £135 per 50-60 minutes

Relationship Enrichment Workshops

Standard - £120

Cancellations: It is usual practice to charge the regular fee for a session cancelled by the client less than 48 hours beforehand. A full fee or half the session fee is applicable upon exploration of the reasons for cancelling. Any cancellations made by client with a 4 weeks notice will not be charged and half the session fee is applicable for any cancellation less than that time frame

Get in Touch

Please get in touch if you have any questions on Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Couples Therapy, or Relationship Enrichment Workshops, or if you like to book an initial session.

You can also call me on 07960462532 if you would prefer to leave a message or speak to me first. I am happy to discuss any queries or questions you may have prior to arranging an initial appointment.

All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential and uses secure phone and email services.

Some frequently asked questions

Is therapy really that important?

It is true that the hustle and bustle of modern day city life leaves some people with little or no time to reflect on themselves. As a result, we find ourselves experiencing stress, low mood, anxiety, poor confidence, low self-esteem, poor sleep, problems with relationships with our loved ones or work colleagues, addictions, at times questioning what life is all about, and genuinely wondering about our purpose in life altogether. The stress of present day life also leads to burn out- cognitive overload, and extreme physical exhaustion. As a result, one adopts unhealthy ways of coping, which have a negative impact on one's mental and psychological well being.

At times, there may be some issues from the past that are unresolved, and affecting different aspects of your life. Therapy offers a reflective space where you can unwind and get to know your self more intimately. It also enables you to find healthier ways of being and relating, emotional processing, find healthier ways of managing any problems you are faced with, work through, and develop the capacity to reflect on yourself which is hugely significant. The decision to start therapy is an important one, albeit, not always easy. Evidence suggests that the key ingredient in any therapeutic encounter is the relationship between the therapist and the client.

It is therefore crucial that you find an experienced therapist, who you can connect with, and walk side by side with; a therapist who offers you a safe space where you feel comfortable, respected, understood, validated, listened to, and safely develop the ability to tune into the deeper parts of yourself. Therapy can therefore help you be in tune with yourself, and live life more meaningfully. I firmly believe that psychological well being should be seen in the same light as physical well being. The stigma around mental health and psychological well being is what perpetuates the unnecessary suffering that most people go through, without seeking help at the right time.

How do I arrange a session?

Call me on 07960462532 or email me on info@citysanctuarytherapy.com. You can also call or email me by clicking the email or call link buttons further up the page. If I am unavailable on the phone, please leave me a message with a name and number. I aim to respond to all messages (email, text, and voicemail) within 24 hours.

Is there any age limit?

Yes. I am an adult Psychodynamic Psychotherapist and l work with ages from 18 and above. I also work with couples.

How long can I expect to be seeing a psychotherapist for?

The choice of therapy we decide in our consultation depends on the nature of your difficulties and what brings you to therapy. Our sessions for time limited psychodynamic counselling and CBT will be 6-12. Our open ended psychotherapy will have no set end date from the beginning. It is however important that we work towards an ending when we do decide to end therapy, as this is a very important part of our work. The length of time you spend in therapy depends on the nature of your difficulties and the depth of the work. Most people stay in therapy for a number of years to allow themselves sufficient time to work through some of the deepest conflicts, and issues from their past that may be impacting on the present, therefore addressing the whole self.

Do I pay for missed sessions or cancellations?

It is usual practice to charge the regular session fee for a session cancelled by the client less than 48 hours beforehand. A full fee is applicable to a cancellation made with less than 48 hours notice. Any cancellations made by client with a 4 weeks notice will not be charged, and half the session fee is applicable for any cancellation less than that time frame. This is because the space is reserved for you and therefore open even if you do not attend. You will not be expected to make any payment if I am not available. I will give you my holiday dates well in advance, and I will also appreciate having your holiday dates in advance.

How do I make the sessions payments and how often do I make the payments?

YesI typically raise an invoice at the end of each month, unless you prefer to pay weekly or fortnightly, which can be arranged. Payments can be made via bank transfer, Paypal or in cash. This should be done in a timely manner.

How long do sessions last?

Individual sessions last 50 minutes, and couple's therapy sessions lasts 50-60 minutes. Sessions are once weekly at agreed times. This will be agreed in the initial session. At times, I do offer twice a week or fortnightly sessions, depending on my clients' needs and life demands.

How much does each session cost?

Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy and CBT sessions cost £100/hr for individuals. The rate for couples therapy session is £135/hr. These flat rates are applicable to both London and Buckinghamshire Locations, as well as online. Some insurance clients may have to pay the difference between the insurance rebate and my fee. The fee reflects my experience, qualifications, and specialisms. I am recognised by Axa, Aviva, Cigna, WPA, Healix, and Vitality, as a healthcare provider. If you have insurance through any of these companies, you will be able to use it. Please confirm the validity of your cover first. Sessions are subject to a £10 increase annually, typically at the beginning of each year. This will be discussed with you in session.

What is the difference between CBT and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy?

CBT is a practical approach which helps you find ways of managing present day distress, while psychodynamic psychotherapy helps us explore and address the source of the distress. Using the metaphor of a house on fire- CBT is akin to putting out the fire flames-cooling and smothering the flames, so that the fire dies down. Psychodynamic work is akin to us figuring out the cause/source of the fire altogether. This is important, otherwise one runs the risk of having yet another fire.

Can I bring another person to the sessions (eg. partner, friend, brother?

I work with couples, offering couples therapy. However, this needs to be agreed right from the beginning of our work.

How confidential are the sessions?

Sessions are confidential unless if there are legal implications or in the event of serious risk factors that your GP or other practitioners have to be aware of. As an ethical practitioner, any decision to do so is always in your best interest. I have full indemnity insurance to cover my practice as a therapist. All information kept about you is stored in line with the GDPR laws.

I have a very busy lifestyle and can't commit to weekly sessions in London. Can I use Zoom or Skype as an alternative to face to face contact? I am unable to travel to have my sessions in person, due to the Covid-19 crisis

Yes, we can have sessions over Zoom, Skype or Telephone. These sessions are scheduled in the same fashion as face to face sessions.

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