Dr Chesney Ward-Smith, PhD

I offer psychotherapy for adolescents and adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or caught in unhelpful patterns — whether related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, burnout, ADHD, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or women’s issues. I also work with people seeking space for reflection, growth, meaning, and change. My work is grounded in a collaborative, trusting therapeutic relationship. I aim to create a space that feels safe, respectful, and non-judgmental, while also being honest and engaged. I’m an active, involved therapist rather than a silent observer, and our sessions focus on both insight and practical steps forward. I work at your pace, using evidence-based approaches such as ACT, CBT, mindfulness, and BWRT, tailored to you. A central focus is helping you regulate emotions, clarify your values, and move toward a life that feels more balanced and meaningful. My style is compassionate, direct, and human, with clear boundaries — and room for warmth and humour. A particular area of interest is adolescent mental health. I support adolescents in developing healthy ways to cope with intense emotions and stress, and I work collaboratively with parents through regular feedback to help them support their teens. I also offer Ecotherapy, a nature-based approach that uses guided mindfulness practices outdoors to support slowing down, stress reduction, self-compassion, and reconnection — with yourself, others, and the world around you. Sessions are 50–60 minutes, offered in my office or outdoors, and usually take place weekly. The first session is often a little longer and gives us space to understand what’s brought you to therapy and how we might work together. Some people come for short-term, goal-focused work, while others choose longer-term therapy. We’ll decide this together.