About Me
Olivia Waud-Shaw MBACP, MSc. Integrative therapist
I am an integrative therapist registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I don’t believe there’s one single way to do therapy. Instead, I draw from different approaches depending on what feels most supportive for you. At the heart of my work is the relationship we build together and noticing what happens in the therapy room. The patterns that show up between us can give real insight into how you relate to yourself and others, and can become a place to explore new, healthier ways of being.
A big part of my practice is Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). This approach combines insights from psychology, mindfulness, and neuroscience, and is especially helpful if you struggle with self-criticism, shame, or a harsh inner voice. Many of the people I work with find it difficult to feel safe or connected, often because of earlier experiences that still have an impact today. CFT provides practical tools to quieten that inner critic, regulate overwhelming emotions, and build a kinder, more compassionate relationship with yourself.
I also work in a trauma-informed way, which means I’m mindful of how past experiences can shape the way you feel and act in the present. My role is to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported, so that together we can work at a pace that feels right for you.
My Experience & Credentials
I hold an MSc in Psychotherapeutic Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience. My interest in therapy grew from a fascination with how our brains and bodies carry the stories of our lives. But was working directly with people that brought these ideas to life and inspired me to support others in making meaningful change.
My ongoing post-qualifying training has included:
-
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
-
Trauma-informed counselling
-
Working therapeutically with neurodivergence
I have worked across a variety of settings including the NHS, local authority and universities. These roles have involved supporting people facing complex trauma, addiction and mental health challenges. I am currently an Autism Specialist in higher education, supporting neurodivergent students with the demands of academic life.
These experiences have given me a deep respect for the diverse ways people cope with, survive, and adapt to difficult life experiences. It has also reinforced my belief in the importance of tailoring therapy to each individual’s unique history, context, and needs, providing a supportive and practical space for reflection and understanding.
About Therapy
Therapy can help with a range of issues including:
Stress - anxiety – depression – trauma and PTSD – grief and loss – relationships – low self-esteem – addiction – difficult childhood experiences – OCD and intrusive thoughts – phobias and fears – eating and body image – work pressures and life transitions
I work with adults across a wide range of concerns, but I have particular interest and experience in:
-
Trauma and its psychological and relational impact
-
Low self-worth, shame, and self-criticism
-
Anxiety, stress, and burnout
-
Relationship difficulties and patterns
-
Neurodivergence
I usually work with people on a medium- to long-term basis. This gives therapy the space it needs to unfold allowing trust to build and exploration to happen at a pace that feels manageable and safe.
My approach is integrative and relational, meaning I draw on a variety of therapeutic perspectives rather than a single model. These include psychodynamic, person-centred, CBT, and compassion-focused therapies. Each offers something different, but they all create space for reflection and self-understanding,. You can read more about these approaches below.
Integrative Therapy
Integrative therapy recognises that no single approach fits everyone. Instead of working from just one model, it draws from different schools of thought to create a flexible, personalised process. The aim is to bring together the most helpful elements from different approaches in a way that supports your unique needs and goals.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy focuses on how early experiences and unconscious processes shape current feelings, behaviours, and relationships. By exploring recurring emotional themes and patterns, including those that arise in the therapeutic relationship, clients can gain deeper self-understanding and begin to work through unresolved difficulties.
My Location
My therapy room is based at Ebury Edge in Pimlico, SW1W, a community-run space that supports local businesses. The environment is welcoming, relaxed, and supportive, ideal for clients to feel at ease while exploring their thoughts and emotions.
The space is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Victoria Station and an 9-minute walk from Sloane Square, making it easily accessible from central London and surrounding areas.
For clients unable to attend in person, I also offer secure online therapy sessions, providing flexibility and support regardless of location.
My Values
At the centre of my practice is the belief that therapy should offer a calm, thoughtful space where you can explore your experiences without judgment. Many of the people I work with appear to manage well in daily life, but inside feel exhausted, disconnected, or held back by a critical inner voice. Therapy provides an opportunity to pause, reflect, and begin to make sense of these challenges.
My practice is inclusive and affirming. I welcome people from all identities, backgrounds, and life experiences, recognising that each person’s story is unique.
I see therapy as a collaborative process. Rather than offering ready-made solutions, I work alongside you to explore the patterns and experiences that shape your life. This process can bring greater understanding, open up new perspectives, and support you in developing more sustainable and compassionate ways of being with yourself and others.
Get In Touch
If you would like to get in touch, you can contact me via email or by submitting an enquiry through the contact form.
Following your initial message, we can arrange either a brief phone call or your first session, either in person at my Pimlico office or online.
I aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours, and all communication is strictly confidential, using secure email and phone systems.
Contact Info
Address
Ebury Edge, 43 Ebury Bridge Road, Westminster, London, SW1W 8DX