Hello, and a warm welcome to Samantha McEwan Psychotherapy

Hi, I'm Samantha. I'm a trauma-informed psychotherapist and mental health nurse with over 25 years' experience working in NHS mental health. I work with clients online and in person, in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire.

My clinical background in mental health means I take a holistic, whole person, trauma informed view of wellbeing, recognising how early life experiences, relationships, physical health and current circumstances can all influence how you're feeling.

In therapy we work together to understand not only what's happening now, but also any experiences and patterns that may be keeping you stuck.

The human experience can be greatly affected by:

Childhood trauma, complex trauma/PTSD - related to childhood physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect or unstable caregiving.
Depression and the immobilising effect this can have on mind and body.
Adult trauma such as difficult relational patterns, or abuse, or the impact of sudden or chronic ill health, for example.
The impact of difficult life experiences or changes.
Anxiety, stress, overwhelm and burnout, whether personally, in relationships, or at work

While the people I work with have experience of some of the above issues, many of my clients don't necessarily think of themselves as having experienced trauma. They often feel stuck in repeating patterns of anxiety, overwhelm, self-doubt or self-criticism, or people pleasing that have developed over time. Once we understand the purpose of these patterns - often they are protective, natural survival strategies- we can release them and move forward with a healthier sense of self and wellbeing.

How I work with my clients

Much of the work of therapy is about developing a deeper understanding of yourself, your experiences and your world, which can lead to new, healthier ways of thinking, responding and relating to yourself, your life and to others. A safe and therapeutic relationship with your therapist goes a long way to support these changes.

Rather than focusing on symptoms alone, I aim for us to develop a shared understanding of the experiences, patterns and root causes that may be contributing to your difficulties.

"Samantha picks things up about my situation very quickly. She is so transparent and calming and gets to the heart of things."

I use evidence-based CBT alongside approaches such as ACT, compassion-focused therapy and trauma therapy, and nervous system regulation strategies, carefully adapted for trauma, and tailored to your individual needs.

Benefit of therapy for my clients
It is always a real privilege to be alongside each of my clients on their journey. My clients have often fed back that they benefitted from my kind, active and direct approach in therapy, enabling them to get to the root of their difficulties and move forward with a clearer headspace and improved sense of self, identity and confidence.

Starting Therapy

Choosing a therapist is about finding the right clinical fit. I offer an informal, no obligation and free of charge 20-30 minute consultation call prior to starting therapy to see whether my way of working is a good fit for you. Many people worry about knowing where to start -I guide the conversation by asking a little about the problem or issue you would like help with, how it is affecting you just now, and talk through how I may be able to help, and answer any questions you might have. You won't be asked to go into lots of detail -you're in control of what you share.

Please do feel free to get in touch- I try respond to all email enquiries within one working day.

"I'm so thankful I connected with Samantha. She is professional, responsive and sensitive, while also knowledgeable and straightforward with me. The way she understands me has been a long-awaited breath of fresh air. She validates my emotions and experiences and works carefully with me to identify patterns and goals".