Dancers
I work with ballet dancers and people in professional dance careers who are navigating the pressures of training, performance, injury, or transition.
Drawing on both my clinical expertise and lived experience within the dance world, I bring a nuanced understanding of the complexities that can arise in these environments.
My work often focuses on body image and eating concerns, self-criticism, identity, and supporting a steadier, more compassionate relationship with yourself in dance and beyond.
Support for the Psychological Demands of Dance
Working in ballet and dance often involves intense pressure, high expectations, and a strong sense of identity tied to performance and physicality. Many dancers struggle quietly with self-criticism, perfectionism, body image concerns, eating difficulties, or a sense of never feeling “enough,” even when things appear to be going well.
These challenges can sit alongside other, less visible experiences. Many dancers leave home at a young age, and navigate independence and emotional development earlier than their peers. Some have also had difficult experiences within training environments.
I offer a space where dancers can talk about both dance-related pressures and the broader emotional experiences that come with these careers. This work is not limited to performance or sports psychology, but supports emotional wellbeing, identity, and a more compassionate relationship with yourself in dance and beyond.
When To Get Help & What Can We Do?
(dancer edition)
If emotions are feeling unmanageable, confusing, or are starting to impact your wellbeing, relationships, training, or work, support can help you build greater understanding and practical skills, whether you are currently dancing, navigating injury or transition, or thinking about what might come next.
We can work together to:
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Identify emotional triggers and patterns, including those shaped by training and performance environments
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Learn skills to calm and re-focus your attention during periods of pressure, stress, or self-criticism
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Increase emotional awareness and understanding, particularly around difficult or conflicting feelings
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Build tolerance for strong emotions without reacting in ways that feel unhelpful or punishing
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Improve communication about feelings, needs, and boundaries within and beyond dance
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Develop greater self-compassion and acceptance
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Explore identity, values, and future planning, including considerations around change, transition, or life after dance
Sessions can be offered in person or via telehealth, with flexible appointment times where possible. This allows support to fit around demanding schedules, touring, training commitments, or time spent away from home.