About Me
I’m Shirley Lafond, a psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and compassionate focused therapist.
I didn’t come to this work through ambition or branding. I came to it through lived experience.
For many years, I was a chronic people‑pleaser, highly responsible, emotionally attuned to others, and quietly overwhelmed. I learned early how to stay safe by staying agreeable, capable, and accommodating.
It worked, until it didn’t.
Over time, I realised that the anxiety, exhaustion, and loss of self-trust I was experiencing were not personal failures, but the cost of repeatedly abandoning myself.
My work now centres on helping women understand why people‑pleasing develops, and how to move beyond it without blame, force, or self-criticism.
My Approach
My presence is calm, grounded, and relational. I don’t push, provoke, or pressure change.
I believe that:
- Emotional safety is a prerequisite for growth
- Insight without integration leads to more overwhelm
- Boundaries emerge naturally when self-trust is restored
I work best with women who are self-aware, reflective, and ready to take responsibility for their inner world, not because they are failing, but because they are ready.
My Values
These values guide every aspect of my work:
Self‑Trust Over Self-Sacrifice
Lasting change comes from learning to trust yourself, not from pleasing more.
Emotional Safety
Growth happens in calm, respectful, non-judgmental spaces.
Integrity & Honesty
Clear boundaries, ethical practice, and truth-based work matter deeply here.
Responsibility & Agency
This work supports empowerment, not dependency.
Gentle, Sustainable Change
I honour the nervous system and move at a human pace.
More About Me
Outside of my work, I have a bustling family that keeps me on my toes and brings me endless joy. I’m also a sports enthusiast who loves a good challenge – whether it’s Tough Mudder, a 5K obstacle run, or trying new activities that push my limits. Oh, and I absolutely love cats!
In my downtime, you’ll find me reading, dancing, writing, and meditating. Starting each day with a 20-minute meditation is my secret weapon – it energises me, clears my mind, and sets the tone for a focused and motivated day ahead.
Working Together
If you feel drawn to working with me, the next step is usually a short application or conversation to ensure the program is the right fit for you.
This helps protect both you and the group, and ensures the space remains safe, steady, and supportive.