Talking Tails

Get to know Talking Tails

From Talking Tails's website.

• Our approach

  Talking Tails uses a holistic, nature-based approach to therapy that incorporates animal-assisted therapy with the therapy dog Beau as part of your care. Sessions are personally tailored to your individual needs and may take place in the peaceful Samford Valley environment, incorporating outdoor elements such as mindful walks, quiet reflection in natural spaces, or simply enjoying the soothing sounds of wildlife. The approach includes evidence-based therapies such as DBT, MBT, EMDR, and CBT, with sessions being goal-directed to allow time and space to process thoughts and feelings. If office-based sessions feel uncomfortable, Walk Talk Therapy is available, combining the therapeutic benefits of sunlight, movement, exercise, and nature with conversational therapy. This creates a secure, non-judgmental environment where you can freely express yourself and embark on a journey towards holistic healing.

• Meet the team

  The team comprises Tracy Sweeny-Ward, a senior mental health clinician and credentialed mental health nurse with over 28 years of experience, holding a degree and masters in mental health practice plus post-graduate training in DBT, MBT, EMDR, CBT, Circle of Security, and animal-assisted therapy. Dr David Ward is a psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience, trained in the UK as a child and adolescent specialist and involved in establishing early intervention psychosis services; he has extensive training in psychodynamic, family, acceptance and commitment, cognitive and dialectical behavioural therapies, and EMDR, with particular interest in trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders, mood, eating and psychotic disorders. Beau, an 8-year-old Labrador, serves as the therapy animal, providing emotional support and comfort during sessions. (Please note: Dr Ward is currently unable to accept new referrals.)