Mariana Rodrigues Neto

Cognitive Behavioural Therapist & Occupational Therapist

I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and qualified Occupational Therapist with over ten years’ experience working in mental health services. I have worked across both adult and young people’s NHS services, supporting people experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional difficulties and periods of significant change or distress.

I believe that therapy should provide a space where you feel genuinely listened to and understood, without judgement. My approach is warm, collaborative and practical. Together, we will develop an understanding of what you are struggling with, the experiences and patterns that may be contributing to these difficulties, and what might help you move towards the changes you would like to make.

I have specialist postgraduate training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) from King’s College London. CBT can help us understand the connections between our thoughts, emotions and behaviours, and identify patterns that may have developed as ways of coping but are now keeping us feeling stuck. I use this understanding to help people develop new ways of responding to difficult thoughts and feelings and gradually make meaningful changes in their everyday lives.

My background as an Occupational Therapist also shapes the way I think about psychological wellbeing. I am interested not only in symptoms, but in how difficulties affect your relationships, confidence, independence, routines and ability to engage with the parts of life that matter to you. I therefore take a holistic approach and tailor therapy to the individual rather than assuming that the same approach will work for everyone.

I have particular experience of working with adolescents and young adults and understand that the transition into adulthood can bring its own challenges. Difficulties with anxiety, self-confidence, relationships, identity, independence and uncertainty about the future can become particularly prominent during this stage of life. I aim to provide a supportive space in which these experiences can be understood, while helping you develop greater confidence in managing difficulties and moving towards the life you want to build.

Above all, I aim to create a therapeutic relationship in which you feel comfortable being yourself and able to explore difficult experiences at a pace that feels manageable. Therapy is something we do together, and we will regularly reflect on what is helpful and ensure that our work remains focused on the things that matter most to you.