Gemma Draper

Why | I became a therapist after working initially as a nursery nurse and a teaching assistant for 21 years. I realised that I had become very passionate about the pastoral and nurturing elements of my role. I have always used the motto, and instilled the belief of, helping children and young people’s mental health while they are younger will enable them to develop growth mindset and heathier way of being as an adult. Also, coming from a chaotic childhood myself - with unhealthy attachments and somehow finding my own way from a very young age to repair this - highlighted as an adult that I also needed therapy for myself. Once I accessed support, I could see the benefits and the impact that therapy can provide for the self. It was life changing for me. It encouraged me to provide a safe space for individuals of all ages and help others too. I am a real advocate for hearing the child’s voice and I am very passionate about listening and emphasising, both being a part of their experiences, facilitating the therapeutic process and devising a coping toolkit.

Who | I work with children, young people and adults.

How | I use play therapy, CBT, person-centred therapy, and wellbeing.

My Passion | My passion to is support and encourage a growth mindset, to just ‘be’ with my clients and for them to feel safe, heard and not judged.

My Little Known Fact | I go dizzy now, but I can still do a back bend, a handstand and cartwheels. I guess I am just like a big child myself!

My Self-care Tip | To reframe those unhealthy thoughts – easier said than done I know but when you are having those off days and challenging times rather than ask yourself ‘why me?’ reframe this with ‘what is this trying to teach me?’. Stay active, become comfortable in being alone, lots of laughter and most importantly eat cake.