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Expert Couple Psychotherapy Services
Tamar Psychotherapy was founded by Susan Irving, a Senior Member of the British Association of Psychotherapists and fully qualified Couple Analytical Psychotherapist. With over 35 years of clinical experience since 1985, we specialise in helping couples, co-parents, and blended families navigate complex relationship dynamics through in-depth psychoanalytical therapy. Our practice is rooted in the principles of psychoanalysis, offering a confidential and non-judgmental space to explore emotional and relational challenges. We serve clients across Devon and Cornwall, providing tailored therapy sessions that address both immediate conflicts and underlying psychological patterns. Our services cater to diverse relationships, including same-sex couples, divorced parents, and stepfamilies, with flexible options for in-person or remote consultations.

Susan's expertise, gained through a Masters in Couple Psychotherapy and membership in the International Psychoanalytic Association, ensures a rigorous yet compassionate approach. We prioritise ethical practice under the British Confederation of Psychotherapists' Code of Ethics, focusing on long-term relational transformation rather than temporary fixes. Initial assessments help determine therapy suitability, with fees adjusted to individual circumstances to ensure accessibility. Sessions typically occur weekly in our Portwrinkle clinic, though online options are available for those facing geographical barriers. Our commitment to confidentiality and client-centred care has established us as a trusted resource for resolving communication breakdowns, sexual difficulties, and post-separation co-parenting challenges.
Services
Couple Psychotherapy Co-Parents Support Blended Families Therapy Sexual Problems Therapy Initial Consultation
Highlights and features
  • 35+ years of clinical experience since 1985
  • Specialist Couple Psychotherapy training from University of East London
  • Registered with British Psychoanalytic Council for ethical standards
  • Tailored therapy for diverse family structures including same-sex couples
  • Flexible session options including remote consultations
Associations and certifications
  • British Psychoanalytic Council
  • British Confederation of Psychotherapists
Services
Couple Psychotherapy
In-depth psychoanalytical therapy exploring relationship dynamics and emotional patterns. This service helps couples understand underlying conflicts affecting their relationship. Sessions focus on improving communication and creating lasting relational changes through weekly meetings.
Co-Parents Support
Specialist support for separated couples navigating co-parenting challenges. Addresses post-separation parenting arrangements and communication difficulties. Helps establish effective child-focused strategies for divorced parents and guardians.
Blended Families Therapy
Therapy addressing loyalty conflicts and adjustment issues in reconstituted families. Supports step-parents and biological parents in establishing healthy family dynamics. Focuses on resolving intergenerational tensions following remarriage or new relationships.
Sexual Problems Therapy
Specialist treatment for sexual difficulties impacting relationships. Explores psychological roots of sexual problems through confidential sessions. Addresses both recent and long-standing sexual relationship challenges affecting intimacy.
Initial Assessment
Preliminary evaluation to determine therapy suitability for your situation. Includes discussion of your specific challenges and therapy goals. Helps establish whether ongoing psychotherapy would benefit your relationship circumstances.
People
Susan Irving
Founder & Lead Psychotherapist
Senior Member of British Association of Psychotherapists with 35+ years' experience. Qualified Couple Analytical Psychotherapist, former NHS practitioner, and visiting clinician at TCCR. Specialises in relationship therapy for diverse family structures.
Questions
What types of relationships do you work with?
We support all relationship types including heterosexual, same-sex, mixed-race couples, co-parents, and blended families facing relational challenges.
Can therapy help if we're considering separation?
Yes, we help couples explore their options during crisis points, whether working towards reconciliation or navigating separation constructively.
How are fees determined?
Fees are discussed during initial assessment and may be adjusted according to individual financial circumstances to ensure accessibility.
What if only one partner can attend?
While joint sessions are ideal, individual sessions can still provide valuable insights and strategies for relationship challenges.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes, we provide remote therapy via Zoom for clients unable to attend our Portwrinkle clinic in Cornwall.