Paula John, Psychodynamic Psychotherapist
“Together, we will uncover the hidden meanings behind your feelings and behaviours, empowering you to embrace change and growth with compassion and self-awareness.”
Paula John is a highly experienced Psychodynamic Psychotherapist and Psychologist with over 14 years of dedicated service within the National Health Service (NHS). She specialises in the psychodynamic approach, which is based on the principles of psychoanalysis, and provides expert therapeutic support to individuals addressing a wide range of mental health concerns with compassion and professionalism.
The founder of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, likened the work of a psychoanalytically oriented psychotherapist to that of an archaeologist, uncovering artefacts from the past that are not visible anymore but form the structure of the personality.
“I work together with my clients to uncover how the past is still alive in the present, for instance through patterns of relating to others established early in life. Symptoms are understood as meaningful, and in my practice, I collaborate with clients to understand the hidden and unconscious meanings of symptoms, feelings, and behaviours. Achieving greater self-knowledge is not only empowering but also alleviates distress and brings opportunities for change and growth.”
She completed an advanced psychotherapy training at the renowned Tavistock Centre, a world-leading institution in psychotherapy and mental health education. Her approach is deeply rooted in evidence-based methodologies, ensuring her practice is informed by the latest developments in psychological theory and clinical research.
Known for her dedication to fostering mental health and her exceptional clinical skills, she is committed to empowering individuals through accessible, transformative care. She also offers psychotherapy in German, catering to a broader range of clients.
A published author, Paula has contributed valuable insights to the field of mental health through her writing. Her publications explore key topics such as psychological resilience, relational dynamics, and therapeutic best practices, reflecting her commitment to advancing understanding in the field of psychology and psychoanalysis.
“My extensive career within the NHS has honed my ability to work effectively in complex, multidisciplinary environments, providing care that is both innovative and client-centred. I am particularly skilled in supporting clients through challenges such as trauma, relationship difficulties, anxiety, and depression to promote emotional well-being, tailoring my interventions to meet individual needs.”
Working in the mental health field requires adaptability, compassion, and a commitment to continuous learning—qualities that Paula brings to every client interaction, ensuring that their journey towards well-being is supported every step of the way.
Accreditations and Memberships:
Publications and Articles:
McCabe, R., John, P. et al. (2016). Training to Enhance Psychiatrist Communication with Patients with Psychosis (TEMPO): Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial. British Journal of Psychiatry, 209 (6) p. 517-524. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27445354/
John, P, Khanom, H. et al. (2015). How to value patients with psychosis: An inductive study of psychiatrists’ behaviour in routine consultations. Communication & Medicine, 12 (1), p. 55-69. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29115793/
Paula earlier publications were published in Germany and under her maiden name Hermann. They are available in hardcover.
The first one is an article in the journal of analytic children and adolescent psychotherapy (‘Analytische Kinder- und Jugendlcihen-Psychotherapie’).
Hermann, P.*, Leuschner, W., Benavides-Piaggio, C. (2012). Wenn die Zauberfee kommt eine Studie zu den Vorstellungen kleiner Kinder von Schlaf (trans.: When the fairy comes: a study on children’s conceptualization of sleep). Analytische Kinder- und Jugendlichen Psychotherapie (trans.: Analytic children and adolescent psychotherapy). 154: p 207 – 229.
For the second one, I was the co-author of a chapter in a psychoanalytic book on early prevention in ADHD.
Leuzinger-Bohleber M, Brandl Y, Hermann P*. et al. (2006). Die Frankfurter Praeventionsstudie. Zur psychischen und psychosozialen Integration von verhaltensauffaelligen Kindern, insbesondere von ADHS (The Frankfurt Prevention Study. On psychological and psychosocial integration of children with behavioural problems, especially ADHD). In Leuzinger-Bohleber M et al (eds.). (ADHS – Fruehpraevention statt Medikalisierung. (ADHD – early prevention instead of medicalisation). Goettingen: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht. p 238 – 270. https://www.amazon.de/Schriften-Sigmund-Freud-Instituts-Fr%C3%BChpr%C3%A4vention-Medikalisierung-interdisziplin%C3%A4ren/dp/3525451784
HARVEST THERAPY
44 Russell Square,
London WC1B 4JP
United Kingdom
Phone Number:
020 8962 6247
email: info@harvest-therapy.co.uk
