Blue Box Therapy

13/10/2026

You’re capable of far more than you realise. That doesn’t mean you have the capacity for all of it. Both can be true 🤍

I’ve been reading more about capability and capacity recently, and it’s made me reflect on the conversations I’ve been having, both inside and outside the therapy room.

Our capacity naturally changes as the seasons change and as the demands on us shift. Our bodies might not be able to do everything they could in the summer (or the other way round!)

So give yourself permission to say no 🫶

If you’re interested in working with me, the link in my bio is the place to start 🛋️

09/09/2026

Comparison has a way of sneaking in around this time of year. So here's your reminder: your pace is allowed to change. Your needs are allowed to change. What you have capacity for is allowed to change.

Growth isn't a straight line, and neither is healing. Some years call for big leaps forward. Others call for rest, for slowing down, for simply staying steady. Both are progress. Both are enough.

If this year has looked quieter or slower than you expected, that's not falling behind — that's you listening to what you actually need right now. None of that makes you inconsistent. It makes you human.

Send this to someone who might need to hear it today. 🤍

07/09/2026

Hello, autumn 🍂

As we move into the season, this feels like an invitation to rest and reflect. Not just swapping out the wardrobe and enjoying a pumpkin spice latte, or two ☕️

Summer asked a lot of us. From social plans back to back, celebrations, holidays, and trying to fit everything in before it's "too late". Autumn can hold all of that too, just with a bit more breathing room.

Maybe it's less about doing and more about noticing. Slowing down. Giving yourself permission to turn inward a little before the year picks back up.

So, what is autumn inviting you to do differently this time? 💭

If this is speaking to something you've been sitting with, I have therapy spaces available. You'll find everything you need to get started in the link in my bio 🛋️

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15/02/2026

It’s been a while since I showed my face on here… so hello again 🤍

I’m Danielle, Integrative Psychotherapist (MBACP Accred) 🌿 A lot has changed since I first opened my private practice in 2021 ✨

If you’re new here (or even if you’re not), here’s a little about me:

📖I recently rediscovered my love of reading thanks to my Kindle. I’m currently deep into the Throne of Glass series and always happy to swap recommendations. I love when clients bring their world into the therapy room too, through playlists, memes, group chat chaos… it all holds meaning.

🤍I got married in June 2025. One of the happiest days of my life. It also deepened my understanding of connection, identity, transition and how we grow within meaningful relationships.

🧘‍♀️I’ve practised yoga for over 10 years (with lots of Hotpod in recent years 💜) I first turned to yoga to manage anxiety during my undergraduate degree, and it’s still something that grounds me and strengthens that mind–body connection 🌿

🎓I completed my MSc in Integrative Counselling & Psychotherapy with a distinction (a proud moment!), and slowly built my Derbyshire private practice from the ground up. I was then awarded my accreditation from the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) in 2023.

🛋️Now in 2026, I work with clients both in-person and online. This is a balance that supports both my clients and my own wellbeing.

Outside of therapy, my self-care usually looks like:
☕ Coffee dates
🚐 Campervan trips
🥾 Muddy walks
🧁 Baking
🐾 Cat cuddles (who occasionally make Zoom appearances)
🧘‍♀️ Mindful moments

If you’re considering therapy 🤍

I offer a free 20-minute phone/Zoom consultation. A gentle, no-pressure space to explore what’s bringing you here and whether we feel like the right fit.

📩 [email protected]
🌐 blueboxtherapy.co.uk

If you’re a fellow therapist, come and say hello 🤍

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20/03/2025

Embracing mindfulness with the joys of spring 🌱☀️

Make the most of the new season to boost your mental health with these well-being tips from Counselling Psychotherapist Danielle Smith. 💬 http://ow.ly/CplE10608WB

13/09/2024

Feelings Friday! 🌿

Take time today to check in with your emotional health using these reflective journal prompts. Journaling helps us understand and process our emotions, making space for more balance and peace within ✨

💭 What is my most dominant emotion today?

💭What emotions did I experience the most this week?

💭How can I express my emotions in a healthy way?

Save this post and pick one or two prompts to explore your feelings and foster emotional growth 🌱

11/09/2024

Thinking of starting therapy and have private medical insurance? 💭

I am a Recognised Psychotherapist for Aviva, AXA Health and Vitality Insurance ✨

Depending on your cover, you might be entitled to a number of psychotherapy sessions, helping to make therapy more accessible. Sessions can be available in person or online 💻

If you would be interested in starting therapy sessions, please reach out through my website or email. You can also contact your insurer directly for more information 📝

🏷️🏷️🏷️

02/09/2024

📖 What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

SAD is a form of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, most commonly during autumn and winter when daylight hours are shorter. It’s more than just feeling “down” during the colder months – for some, it can be quite debilitating, affecting daily life and emotional well-being.

SAD is believed to be linked to reduced exposure to sunlight, which can disrupt your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and impact brain chemicals like serotonin and melatonin that regulate mood and sleep. highlights that these changes can lead to symptoms such as:

- Persistent low mood
- Loss of pleasure in everyday activities
- Increased irritability
- Feelings of despair, guilt, or worthlessness
- Sleep disturbances (e.g., sleeping more than usual)
- Changes in appetite, often with a craving for carbohydrates and weight gain
- Lethargy or feeling sluggish

💡 How to Manage SAD:

Light Therapy: Using a special lightbox that mimics sunlight can help regulate your body’s natural rhythms and improve mood.
Get Outside: Even on cloudy days, try to spend time outside in natural light, especially in the morning.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity boosts endorphins and serotonin, which help improve mood and energy levels.
Seek Professional Help: Talking therapy is effective in managing negative thought patterns related to SAD.
Maintain a Routine: Establishing a consistent routine can help balance sleep, meals, and activities.
Vitamin D Supplements: recommends considering Vitamin D supplements, especially in winter, to help with low levels due to reduced sunlight.
Stay Connected: Social support is crucial. Engage with friends, family, or support groups even when you feel like isolating.

You’re not alone. Reach out if you need help. 💬✨