ABOUT COUNSELLING

Coming to see a counsellor can be a very difficult thing to do. It is often hard to articulate our feelings and there may be a fear that bringing what is troubling us out into the open will give it an unwanted intensity and focus.  There may also be an inclination to dismiss our own needs in order to fulfil the demands and expectations of others and of society in general.  Allocating time to our emotional well being can be seen as an indulgence and yet the internal suffering that can come about from suppressing our emotional needs is often very distressing and painful.

My aim is to offer a safe, non judgemental space where you can talk about whatever may feel important to you.  I will work alongside you to help you generate greater insight and awareness which can be very therapeutic.  I believe that once we truly understand how and why we feel what we do, it can be life changing.  It can allow us to make different choices and helps us approach and view situations and experiences in a more positive, constructive way.

HOW I WORK

I am fully qualified Integrative Relational Counsellor.  This means that I draw upon a variety of skills and approaches depending on what your needs and personality requires.  Developing a trusting relationship is vital for counselling to be effective and it is therefore important that you understand and feel comfortable with the process.  During the first session, you will have the opportunity to get a feel for what to expect and whether it's right for you.  Above all else, I believe that it is the relationship between you and I that will offer the best opportunity for change.  I see clients with a wide range of issues and rest assured that no matter how big or small the problem seems to you, you will be treated with warmth and respect.

I offer day and evening sessions and would usually recommend that our sessions take place at the same time each week or every other week.  Each session will last 50 minutes. I work short term with sessions lasting 6-12 weeks as well as open ended work.  This is something we can decide depending on your circumstances and needs as we proceed with our work together. 

Therapeutic maintenance involves sessions that take place on a monthly or bi monthly basis following the initial sessions and once you feel generally more settled.  This can be a really positive way of maintaining your mental health and 'checking in' with where you are.

The work I do is based predominantly around the following theories:

  • Psychodynamic: This examines how our childhood experiences influence how we behave in the present day

  • Humanistic: Where the provision of a warm, empathetic environment offers a space for healing. This is a very non prescriptive approach which allows for whatever feels important to emerge.

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) : This approach is designed to challenge the meaning we attach to thoughts. It is a more practical way of working and can be very successful in treating anxiety, depression, phobias etc.

Some of the challenges I work with include:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • General low mood

  • Bereavement

  • Low self-confidence and self-esteem

  • Relationship difficulties

  • Setting life goals

  • Stress

  • Sexual and sexuality issues

  • Self-harm

  • Eating disorders

Please note that this list is by no means exhaustive.   

FEES

I offer a FREE 20 minute telephone conversation. In person sessions cost £75 for 50 minutes and a Zoom session would cost £65 for 50 minutes.