Safe Harbour
Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counselling & Psychotherapy
Not just the parts of you that seem put-together, but also the uncertain parts, the overwhelmed parts, the tired, confused, angry parts, too. I believe therapy is a space where the whole of you is welcome, safe, and met with curiosity, compassion and respect.
Hello, my name is Sara Paolini (she/her) and I am a Transactional Analysis therapist in Musselburgh, East Lothian. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, low mood, complex trauma, dissociation, emotional overwhelm, self-criticism, relationship difficulties and questions around identity.
I have a particular interest in supporting people affected by trauma and dissociative experiences, as well as LGBTQ+ and gender, sex and relationship diverse (GSRD) individuals navigating challenges around identity, relationships, belonging and acceptance.
Exploring your Story
I have a genuine interest in meeting you as you are, and in understanding how your unique story has brought you to this point in your life. My aim is to offer a warm, relaxed and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, relationships and experiences at your own pace, without pressure to be anything other than yourself.
Offering a space to be heard
Life can bring moments when everything feels a little too much, you might feel lost in the noise, weighted down by familiar patterns. Therapy offers a quiet space to slow down, to make sense of what is going on and to reconnect with what matters most to you.
It would be a privilege to walk alongside you in that process.
A co-creative process that is tailored to you
This is a partneship, your experience is unique and our work together will be co-creative. We'll adapt each sessions to what you need, whether that is exploring in depth or finding practical ways forward. Together, we can find an approach that feels supportive, honest, and meaningful for where you are right now.
I offer therapy both online and face-to-face, with the option of walk-and-talk sessions where appropriate.
Training, qualifications & experience
I am an MBACP-registered counsellor with a Postgraduate Diploma in Transactional Analysis counselling and psychotherapy. My experience includes private practice, voluntary counselling services, and third-sector work, supporting adults with a wide range of emotional, relational and psychological difficulties.