Wild Reed Psychotherapy and Counselling

14/02/2026

Do you feel devastated by feedback or criticism at work?

Even constructive comments can sometimes feel like a personal attack, triggering self-doubt and anxiety. It is easy to become trapped in a cycle of self-blame, but it is important to recognise that there is a way forward. Therapy offers a path to build resilience and self-assurance, helping you to interpret feedback as a tool for growth rather than a reflection of your worth.

Remember: You are not defined by your mistakes. Equally, you are not defined by your successes. Your worth as a human being stands independent of achievements or financial gain within our capitalist society. It is possible to be satisfied with your whole self, separate from what you accomplish or how much money you earn.

I spent many years feeling unworthy in the corporate workplace, even when my career appeared successful to others. Change was forced upon me, and I am so grateful because now I have the opportunity to do something I truly love - connecting with and supporting others as they navigate their own unique workplace challenges.

Ready to take the next step? Message me to book your first session or to find out more about how therapy can support you.

30/01/2026

Such a great resource if you’re local to Reading ❤️

February at The Studio is an invitation to slow down, soften and reconnect. 🍃

This month we’re offering a small selection of thoughtfully held sessions — from sound and breath to gentle movement and deep rest — each designed to support steadiness, presence and nervous system ease:

✨ 10 Feb — Soundbath with Lorena Rodrigo

✨ 27 Feb — Breathwork & Yoga Nidra with Ann-Marie James of Evolve (online & in studio)

✨ 28 Feb — Soft Landing Mini Retreat with Tessa Venuti Sanderson

All sessions take place in our calm, welcoming space in Reading, with time to arrive, settle and leave feeling nourished.
You’re warmly welcome just as you are.

23/01/2026

The Power of Metaphor in Therapy

In therapy, words are more than just tools - they’re bridges to deeper understanding. Research shows that metaphors help clients and therapists connect beyond logic, tapping into the complex, ineffable aspects of human experience. As a therapist I use metaphors to guide imagery work, storytelling, and even strategic interventions for trauma and anxiety. These creative expressions allow clients to relinquish certainty, risk curiosity, and discover new meanings in their journey.

While I am familiar with this, its effectiveness became especially evident to me during a recent session. I found myself struggling to articulate my thoughts and feelings. My therapist used a metaphor about the challenges of choosing items from a restaurant menu; and suddenly my words flowed and we spent most of the session playing creatively with the idea of different restaurants, different menus, and nourishment and pleasure in food. Nothing about what I was exploring was literally related to resaturants, menus or food!

In the therapeutic relationship, meeting in metaphor can be a moment of true connection, where meaning emerges and healing begins. If you’ve ever found comfort in a story or clarity in a symbol, you’ve experienced the power of metaphor.

18/01/2026

Reminding myself today of the power of gentleness, and of the heart’s immense capacity for love 💗

10/01/2026

Book Spotlight: The Man with the Beautiful Voice by Lillian B. Rubin
The Man with the Beautiful Voice by Dr. Lillian B. Rubin

I love reading books about therapy and the therapeutic process. This was a re-read for me over the Christmas break. This collection of case stories shares as much about the clients as it does about Rubin herself as the therapist.
What makes this book special? From the smoldering rage of the title story to the secret lives and deep pain of others, Rubin’s writing is honest, compassionate, and deeply insightful. Rubin breaks the mold of traditional psychoanalysis, showing that healing is not just about technique, it’s about genuine human connection, empathy, and sometimes bending the rules to meet people where they are. This is how I try and work and show up in the relationship.
There’s an added personal poignancy in the final chapter, ‘What makes therapy work?’ as Rubin explores the limitations of therapy when practitioners are unable to meet the client in what Irvin Yalom has called ‘the therapeutic act, not the therapeutic word’. It’s a reminder that pain and healing are shared experiences and that sometimes, the most beautiful voices are those that help us find our own.
If you’re curious about psychotherapy, have ever been in therapy, or simply love stories about the human spirit, this book offers a rare window into both sides of the therapeutic relationship. If you’d like to work with me, and talk about this more, I’d love to hear from you: sara@wildreedtherapy.co.uk

30/12/2025

Reflections at the Close of 2025

As 2025 draws to a close, I find myself naturally entering a period of reflection. The swift passage of time is striking—sometimes even a little unsettling—as I look back over the year. Some lessons have arrived with gentle grace, while others have presented themselves with more forcefulness. Yet, regardless of how these lessons emerged, gratitude remains at the forefront of my mind.

I am deeply thankful to everyone who has supported me throughout this past year. My therapist has provided a steady presence, offering support and grounding when I have needed it most. My supervisors have imparted wisdom and much-needed perspective, guiding me through professional and personal challenges. My colleagues have walked alongside me, sharing in both the difficulties and the triumphs. Family and friends have been a continual source of comfort and encouragement, their presence helping me to navigate the ups and downs of the year.

Above all, my gratitude extends to my clients. I am truly appreciative of everything they have taught me about themselves, and for the personal insights I have gained through our work together. Their ongoing trust is something I never take for granted, and it remains one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional life.

30/12/2025

Welcome to Wild Reed Psychotherapy and Counselling!
This page is all about supporting you, sharing helpful tips, and making real connections.

I offer:
• One-to-one psychotherapy in 2 locations: Shinfield and Reading Town Centre
• Counselling for adults
• Help with self-esteem, stress, life transitions, identity issues and suicidality
• A safe, confidential space where you can explore what it means be yourself
• Sometimes the bravest thing you can say is, "I'm not okay."

I’ll be posting advice, inspiration, and updates on what’s happening here. Feel free to jump in, ask questions, or share your story—everyone’s welcome!

Ready to chat or curious about how I can help? Send me a message to book your first session or drop a comment below.