Lewis Ottaway

Professional Profile

I'm a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist specialising in working with teens and adults experiencing ADHD, autism, anxiety, and long-standing low self-esteem. I also support people experiencing trauma and depression.

Many of the clients I work with feel capable on the surface but internally overwhelmed, exhausted, stuck or unsure how to move forward. They often find themselves caught in cycles of overthinking, self-doubt, exhaustion or emotional conflict, despite wanting things to be different.

My approach is compassionate, evidence-based and draws on my own lived experience. I primarily work using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and tailor therapy to your needs and goals.

I have experienced low self-esteem, including periods of anxiety and depression, and I am diagnosed with ADHD. I know what it feels like to want things to be different but not know how to get there, and I bring that understanding into the room. When working with neurodivergent clients, I support them to navigate emotional overwhelm, burnout and self-doubt, and develop practical ways to turn intentions into actions, so they can focus on what matters most to them.

When building self-esteem, clients often struggle with self-criticism, taking responsibility for others at the expense of their own needs, fear of rejection, social anxiety and relationship difficulties. Therapy provides a space to better understand yourself, develop self-trust, and act in ways more aligned with who you want to be.

Trauma therapy focuses on reducing the impact of distressing experiences at a pace that feels manageable. Trauma can leave people feeling frozen, on edge or disconnected. Together, we work to rebuild a sense of safety and reconnect with the present. The aim is not simply to cope, but to move forward with greater clarity, confidence and direction.

Above all, I see therapy as a space we create together: thoughtful, steady and focused on meaningful change.

If this sounds like you, we could explore this together when you're ready.