Facing Our Inner Critic with Helen Jane Ridgeway

“One of the things I start with is to support them to raise their self awareness. I think that is vital in terms of wellbeing, resilience and capacity to have a sustainable career.”

Helen - Jane is an Integrative psychotherapist, supporting those within the fashion, entertainment and arts industries. Her background as a professional dancer and choreographer provides a unique understanding of the pressures and issues many young people face within such industries, including issues regarding body image, low self esteem and negative thought processes.

“I personally had self esteem issues when I was working as a dancer. When you are constantly going for casting and putting yourself forward as the product you are selling, it really can take a toll on that [mental health.]”

Helen - Jane refers to what she calls the “Inner Critic”. The negative voice within all of us telling us we are not good enough. She shares her methods to help deal with this and improve our ability to be more compassionate to ourselves. By changing a negative thought into a positive thought and addressing the reason one is thinking these negative thoughts, Helen - Jane helps to change the thought process.

Helen - Jane works with her clients to help them understand their nervous system and “window of tolerance”. A tool that can be effective in helping one to improve mental health and wellbeing. She encourages a holistic approach to support long term mental wellbeing and physical health.