Hillary Smith

Hillary is an integrative psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, and has a wealth of experience working with weight, food and eating presentations.

We all have our own relationship with food, both on a personal, social and cultural level. Food is present in so many aspects of our lives. We all have the capacity to use food to help manage our emotions. For some people, their relationship with food evolves into unhealthy habits and patterns of behaviour. Negative thoughts and assumptions influence self-image and self-esteem and help maintain any unhealthy behaviour. It may be that you have reached a point where your relationship with food is having a negative impact on your life and well-being, and you want this to change. 

Understanding and unravelling the complex nature of our relationship with food and our life experiences is a journey I can explore with you.

My Approach

As an Integrative Therapist, I strive to provide a warm and non-judgemental space for my clients to express, explore and understand thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I have expertise in counselling and psychotherapy approaches and interventions. At the heart of my approach is my belief that the relationship and connection between therapist and client is fundamental to self-exploration and personal growth. I draw on various models and techniques to tailor my approach, as we are all unique. I may suggest Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for understanding thoughts and behaviours, Behavioural Activation for depression, or Mindfulness to help focus on the present. I can offer the Rewind Technique for trauma and PTSD symptoms.

By building a collaborative relationship with my clients and working in a client-centred way. I encourage feedback to help guide any treatment suggestions I make. . However, each client is the expert on themselves and their experience.

“CHANGE YOUR THOUGHTS AND YOU CHANGE YOUR WORLD”
NORMAN VINCENT PEALE

My Experience

I have been running my own private psychotherapy practice since 2017. Alongside my private practice and work with Health Matters Group, and I work as a Specialist Mental Health Mentor at the University of Kent. I worked with Paul’s Cancer Support Centre in London for 10 years, both as a Massage Therapist and Counsellor within the Home Visiting Service. I have experience working within the NHS Increasing Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) in the London borough of Lambeth as well as Medway Talking Therapies in Kent. I began my therapeutic work as a Trainee Counsellor at Goldsmith College Counselling Service.

My History

My career began in photography and publishing after completing my BA in Media Production. As the creativity in my roles reduced, I sought out a change. My interest in human biology and a desire to feel rewarded by my job led me to train as a Massage Therapist. Building therapeutic working relationships with people allowed me to develop a holistic and creative approach to my practice. This has followed through with my psychotherapy practice and choosing to train as an integrative practitioner. My interest in the connection between the mind, the body and our sense of well-being is always present in my approach. 

• 2022
• Diploma in Online Therapeutic Supervision, Online Training for Counsellors (OLT4C)
• 2021
• Level 3 Certificate in Online Counselling Skills, Online Training for Counsellors (OLT4C)
• CPD Certificate The Rewind Technique, International Association for Rewind Trauma Therapy (IARTT)
• 2020
• MA Counselling and Psychotherapy, University of East London
• 2019
• BACP Individual Accreditation
• 2016
• PGDip Counselling and Psychotherapy, University of East London

I undertake continual professional development courses, workshops and reading each year as part of my BACP registration.

Here are some examples:

• 2023
• CPD ADHD Interventions, Essential Therapy Training
• 2022
• CPD Understanding ADHD, Open University
• 2018
• CPD Mental Health First Aid, MHFA England
• 2016
• CPD Certificate in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, Enter Mindfulness
• CPD Certificate in Behaviour Activation, Oxford CREDO