About Me
Hi, I'm Sheena Rydings, a Psychotherapist specialist in Chronic pain and womens health.
I'm dedicated to helping people overcome the challenges of mental health, with a particular focus on supporting women who are living with chronic pain and long-term health conditions. I'm passionate about helping women reconnect with themselves, realign with what truly matters, and rise to thrive in life—not just survive. I believe in empowering women to take control of their nervous systems, manage their pain, and reclaim their sense of self.
With over 15 years of experience as a therapist and more than two decades studying Psychology and mental health, I’ve developed the expertise to offer comprehensive, compassionate support to adults aged 16 and above. I’m fully accredited by the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP), and committed to delivering evidence-based, person-centred care.
My journey into specialising in chronic pain and long-term health conditions spans a decade, during which I’ve gained a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced in these circumstances. In addition to my core expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I draw on advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) to offer a holistic and integrative approach to healing and growth.
My commitment to client-centered care extends beyond individual therapy sessions. I have experience in developing and delivering pain management programs and group therapy sessions, offering diverse avenues for support tailored to individual needs. Whether it's face-to-face sessions at my clinic in Wilmslow or virtual sessions via telephone or video conferencing platforms like Zoom, I strive to make therapy accessible and effective for all.
In my approach to therapy, I prioritise collaboration and empowerment. Together, we'll work as a team to identify your goals and develop a personalised plan to address your specific challenges. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space where you can explore your difficulties and work towards positive change.
Visit the services page to learn more about the support I offer and take the first step towards reclaiming your wellbeing and managing your chronic pain. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey to healing and empowerment.
My qualifications and training include:
- EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapies,
- Post Graduate Diploma in Advanced Practice Interventions in Mental Health,
- Diploma in Psychology
- BA (Hons) in Psychology and Criminology
Additionally, I've received specialised additional training in:
- CBT for Persistent and Long-term Health Conditions
- CBT for Chronic Pain
- Mindfulness
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT),
- Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) for Chronic Pain
- CBT and Autism
My Story
I have always been fascinated by the connection between the mind and body. While I spent many years studying psychology and mental health, it was this intricate link that truly captured my curiosity. I have always felt a pull to support women and feel passionately about empowering them in a world where our voices and experiences can often feel unheard.
On a personal level, my journey has been shaped by seeing my mum live with chronic pain for over 25 years. I’ve watched her struggle with pain management, yet through working with different health professionals, she has built a values-led life. Her life is different, yes—but it is not less. Her strength, resilience, and courage inspired me to help others in the same way she was supported.
I am also a therapist who truly gets it, because I live with chronic pain myself. I have always had ‘dodgy’ and bendy joints, and my pain started in my knees in my early 20s. During pregnancy with my daughter, I had a slipped disc that has never fully gone, making pain management an ongoing learning process. Experiencing this firsthand has helped me connect deeply with my clients, as I bring both professional expertise and personal understanding to my work.
