Samantha Russell

When it comes to struggles and distress around food and eating, I believe it is never, really, about food. My focus is on exploring your experiences, thoughts, beliefs, and emotions, and how these are coming together to create your current relationship with food and body.

My Approach

The values of empathic listening, encouraging, teaching, and non-judgement are at the core of my counselling practice. This means that through our work together, we will explore your experiences, feelings, and understandings, before we collaboratively develop a plan for what might work best for you in therapy. As a Counselling Psychologist in training, I am trained in a variety of psychological approaches, and am currently focussed on cognitive behavioural therapy. Essentially, this means our work together will be individually tailored to you and your individual needs, while also being grounded in scientifically supported practices. It is my goal, that therapeutically, our work will lead to real, lasting change supported by insight and understanding.

I have worked as a counsellor for those struggling in their relationship with food for over five years in New Zealand (where I’m from), South Korea, Sweden, and the UK. This has given me a huge range of intercultural experience as well as a deep appreciation for the ways that food, eating, and bodies may be understood differently.

Coming to therapy can be a scary prospect, especially if you’re struggling with your eating or weight. Additionally, counselling can feel uncomfortable and be difficult at times. However, you are not alone – I am here to openly and honestly help and support you in a safe, confidential space to make real change in your life

• 2019-Present: Doctorate in Counselling Psychology (Final Year), Roehampton University London
• 2019: Diploma in Clinical and Pastoral Counselling, Glasgow Caledonian University
• 2017: Certificate in Clinical and Pastoral Counselling, Glasgow Caledonian University
• 2015: Certificate in Eating Psychology Coaching, Institute for the Psychology of Eating
• 2011: Master of Arts in Social Anthropology (1st Class Honours), Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
• 2009: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology & Social Anthropology, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand

• Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society (BPS)
• Member of BPS Division of Counselling Psychology