Psychotherapy & Psychoanalysis in E20 London, Stratford & Hackney

The speaking space: E20 Psychotherapy & Psychoanalysis

Uncertainties and obstacles are part of life; however, overwhelming uncertainty or encountering numerous challenges can lead to anxiety and raise many questions. If you're looking for a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts and feelings, continue reading or get in touch to book a psychotherapy consultation.

You might have a clear reason for seeking psychotherapy—whether it's anxiety, feeling disconnected, or getting caught in troubling relationship patterns. Or, you might just feel a general sense of unease or restlessness without fully knowing why. It's also common to struggle with the expectations placed upon you by others and feel unsure about how to live in a way that aligns with your own wishes.

Psychoanalysis offers a unique approach to delve into the deeper structures of your mind—your unconscious. It focusses on what's left unsaid, the desires you may not fully understand, and the beliefs that shape you thinking and feeling, which can at times lead to mental struggle. If you're questioning your life, relationships, or the way you relate to others, psychoanalysis invites you to explore the meanings that shape your experience.

Through this process, you may start to rethink the old, stale beliefs that you've been living by and open yourself up to change. Only you can identify which beliefs no longer serve you and how or if you want to embrace the change in your life. My role is to support you in this journey into the unknown rather than being in the position of the one who "knows."

"Transformation occurs not by denying or repressing the darker aspect of self, but by integrating them into fabric of our being"

Marie Ruti in "The Call of Character: Living a Life Worth Living"

My approach to psychotherapy as talking therapy is grounded in psychoanalytic thinking. Psychoanalysis emphasises the role of the unconscious in shaping our thoughts, feelings, or behaviours. Psychoanalysis asserts, that our early experiences and relationships can have a lasting impact on our mental health.

Our early relationships significantly shape how we connect with others and the world around us. From a young age, we develop patterns of relating to ourselves and others, often deeply rooted in our unconscious. These patterns, deeply embedded in our ways of communication and interactions, can influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours in ways we may not always be fully aware of.

Have you ever felt like words couldn't fully capture the complexity of your experience?

Talking therapy offers a space to explore these underlying patterns and uncover their deeper meanings. By expressing your thoughts freely, you can bring some unconscious material into awareness, often leading to relief from previously troubling constructs. This process may also shift your perspective on the past, which can transform how you see the present and envision your future.

About me

I am a psychoanalytic candidate and a training member of the Association for Group and Individual Psychotherapy (AGIP) with UKCP trainee registration (2011185432) and full insurance. I work under the supervision of senior psychoanalysts and am deeply committed to ongoing professional development. I adhere to both the AGIP Code of Ethics and the UKCP Code of Ethics and Professional Practice.

In addition, I hold a Master of Arts (MA) degree in psychology, accredited by the British Psychological Society (261881), and I am a full member of the BPS Special Group for Independent Practitioners (SGIP) and Psychotherapy Section.

In addition to my private practice in the E20 East London area, I hold an honorary position at Strides Highbury Counselling Centre, where I work as a senior counsellor and assessment worker. I also collaborate with Samata Health, a mental health support provider for employees, and Rise Above the Disorder (RAD) Charity. Previously, I volunteered as a therapist with the Psychosis Therapy Project, providing individual talking therapy to clients diagnosed with psychosis.

My varied experiences have deepened my passion for psychoanalysis, as I’ve seen firsthand how unconscious dynamics shape behaviour and emotional struggles. Working with individuals in psychiatric care, victims of domestic abuse, and young people affected by gang involvement has reinforced the importance of understanding the deeper psychological forces at play. Managing a unit for adults with autism and complex needs also highlighted the crucial role early development and attachment play in mental health. Through these roles, I’ve come to appreciate how psychoanalytic work offers the opportunity for long-term healing and transformation by addressing these often hidden aspects of the psyche.

Beyond mental health services, I've also worked in recruitment and career training. I managed a tech startup's government-backed kickstart scheme, designed to help young adults who became unemployed during the COVID pandemic. This role allowed me to combine my mental health expertise with my passion for creativity and entrepreneurship.

Sessions and fees

My practice primarily offers in-person psychotherapy, with hybrid and online options available upon consultation.

If you are seeking psychotherapy in East London, my psychoanalysis & psychotherapy practice is conveniently located near Stratford, Hackney, Leyton, and Dalston areas. The closest overground station is Hackney Wick, and Stratford Underground station is also nearby. Furthermore, Stratford International station, with connections via the Southastern high-speed line, offers fast connections to Kent. Please also enquire about any available openings in North London (N4).

contact me to schedule an initial complimentary 15-minute consultation and to enquire about fees and availability.

ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT

Resources

Videos

"The Strangerness Within" an animation

"What is Psychoanalysis?" series from Freud Museum

Articles

What is psychoanalysis? (by Agip)

"On Wanting to Change" By Adam Phillips

A Psychoanalytic Exploration of Work of Louise Bourgeois-Trauma, Therapy and Catharsis

Quotes

Albert Camus "Return to Tipasa" (1954)

"In the depth of hate, I found there was, within me, an invincible love.

In the depth of tears, I found there was, within me, an invincible smile.

In the depth of chaos, I found there was, within me, an invincible calm.

In the depth of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer."

Virginia Wolf "The Lighthouse" (1927)

"The only thing that matters is to take step forward. But you must not think that it is a mere act of will. There is a great deal of confusion, a great deal of uncertainty, which we must allow. There is also the feeling of time moving, the perception of time slipping away. To make art, we must wrestle with these thoughts, bringing together our experiences and emotions, for in the end, they shape who we are."

Get in touch

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how psychotherapy works, or to arrange an appointment. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to therapy, whether it could be helpful for you, and whether I am the right therapist to help.

You can also call me on 075 8530 8917 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 48 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential and uses secure phone and email services.

Anna Sergent