Wise Ancient Willow
Dancing branches, teaching us.
A quiet way of being -
Standing strong, mighty, and inviting; yet leaning right into the raging storm when that will ensure surviving.
Knowing when to yield a little, without surrendering.
Knowing when to accept that bending will not mean abandoning.
Knowing that it will mean not breaking.
Slender branches, swept by the wind, move gracefully.
Slender branches rest in melancholy and gentleness once the storm has passed.
The deep rooting and faithful knowing that this storm will pass was never questioned.
Not resisting the weatherly uproar, not allowing to be carried away, not believing it being more or less than it is.
As it is -
moving air, floating particles, breezy moments, painful gusts, violent hurricanes, an almost gentle draft.
Still, the Willow always does the same - bending, adjusting, and when the winds grow quiet, finding its shape again.
There we are, learning from the trees –
Strength is not always found in standing still.
Strength may be found in knowing what to hold on to and what to let move.
We can bend without breaking, we can change without losing ourselves, we can remain faithful and trusting when we know of our roots and give them care.
S.R.
Building a foundation for healing
At the heart of Dr Simone's work is the belief that our emotional responses, patterns of behaviour and ways of relating to others often make sense when understood in the context of our life experiences.
Our early relationships, significant life events and environments shape how we understand ourselves and navigate the world. The ways we have learned to cope may once have been essential for our survival, even when those same patterns later become limiting or distressing.
Dr Simone's approach is grounded in attachment theory, trauma-informed practice and evidence-based psychological therapies. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms or diagnoses, she aims to understand the person as a whole, recognising their experiences, emotional needs, strengths and resources.
Safety, trust and the therapeutic relationship form the foundations of this work. Therapy offers a compassionate, collaborative space in which difficult experiences can be explored without judgement and at a pace that feels manageable.
Like the willow tree, psychological recovery involves strengthening our roots while developing the flexibility to adapt and grow.The aim is not simply to reduce distress, but to develop greater self-understanding, emotional safety and the freedom to make meaningful choices.
How therapy works
Starting psychological therapy can feel daunting, particularly when you are unsure what to expect. At Willow Tree Psychology, the process is designed to be clear, collaborative and responsive to your individual needs.
Step 1 - Getting in Touch
The first step is to contact Willow Tree Psychology by email (lorraine@drsimonepsychology.co.uk).
Lorraine, who supports the administration of the practice, will receive your enquiry and help with the initial arrangements, including appointment availability and practical information.
Step 2 - Initial Assessment
Your first appointment with Dr Simone provides an opportunity to explore what has brought you to therapy, your current difficulties, relevant life experiences and what you hope to achieve.
The assessment is not simply about identifying symptoms or reaching a diagnosis. It is about developing a shared understanding of your experiences, needs, strengths and circumstances. Depending on the complexity of your difficulties, the assessment may take more than one session.
Step 3 - Formulation and Treatment Planning
How Therapy Works
Step 2 - Initial Assessment
Your first appointment with Dr Simone provides an opportunity to explore what has brought you to therapy, your current difficulties, relevant life experiences and what you hope to achieve. The assessment is not simply about identifying symptoms or reaching a diagnosis. It is about developing a shared understanding of your experiences, needs, strengths and circumstances. Depending on the complexity of your difficulties, the assessment may take more than one session.
Step 3 - Formulation and Treatment Planning
Following the assessment, Dr Simone will work with you to develop a psychological formulation — a shared understanding of how your experiences, emotions, relationships and coping patterns may relate to your current difficulties. The shared understanding of the existing problems acts like "lighthouse" - a guiding torch for therapy. Together, you will identify meaningful therapeutic goals and agree on an individualised treatment plan. This may draw on EMDR, CBT, DBT-informed interventions or other psychological approaches, depending on your needs.
Step 4 - Therapy and Regular Reviews
Therapy usually involves regular appointments, with the frequency and duration agreed together.
Throughout your work, Dr Simone will review your progress with you, revisit your goals and adapt the treatment plan where needed. Therapy is a collaborative process, not a fixed programme. Your needs, experiences and feedback remain central to how the work develops. The overall aim is to support meaningful and sustainable change, helping you develop greater understanding, emotional resilience and confidence in navigating life.
Taking the First Step
You do not need to have a diagnosis or know exactly what you need before getting in touch.
Sometimes recognising that something feels difficult, overwhelming or no longer manageable is enough to begin. You are welcome to contact Willow Tree Psychology to explore whether psychological therapy might be helpful for you. Please email us: lorraine@drsimonepsychology.co.uk
