About Willow Tree Therapy

I’m Donna, a BABCP-accredited CBT therapist and EMDR therapist based in Middlesbrough. I offer in-person and online therapy for adults experiencing trauma, anxiety, health anxiety, OCD, depression, low self-esteem and the ongoing impact of difficult life experiences.

Before moving into private practice, I worked in the NHS for 19 years, including in Talking Therapies and a hospital Medical Psychology service. I now have over 20 years’ clinical experience supporting adults with trauma, anxiety, depression, long-term health conditions and difficult life experiences.

My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed and evidence-based. We will begin by understanding what has brought you to therapy, what you would like to be different, and what may be keeping the difficulty going. Therapy is always tailored to your needs and may include CBT, EMDR, stabilisation, grounding skills and integrative approaches.

I have a particular interest in supporting people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, disconnected, low in confidence, or affected by past experiences that continue to influence present life. I also have experience supporting people with trauma, long-term health conditions, burnout, identity shifts and midlife transitions.

CBT can help you understand patterns in thoughts, feelings, behaviours and physical responses, and develop practical ways to manage difficulties. EMDR can help process traumatic or distressing memories so they feel less vivid, intrusive or emotionally powerful. Stabilisation and grounding work can also help when emotions feel overwhelming or difficult to manage.

Starting therapy can feel daunting, especially if you are worried about being overwhelmed or having to talk about painful experiences before you feel ready. We will work at a pace that feels safe and manageable, with time to build understanding, trust and a clear plan for therapy.

The name Willow Tree Therapy reflects resilience, flexibility and growth. For me, therapy is not about erasing the past, but about developing greater understanding, steadier coping and a clearer way forward.

I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation so we can briefly discuss what you are looking for and whether I may be the right therapist for you.