When you hit challenging times in your life, it’s difficult to see things clearly... but what do you do when you don’t know where to start or who to turn to?
This is where counselling comes in
The ‘person-centred’ approach to counselling is grounded in the principle that you are the expert in your own experience. Trouble is, sometimes it is difficult to tune in to that expertise when layers and expectations of life have come to cloud the view.
It is in being valued and understood by someone who genuinely cares, that you can begin to trust in what you think and feel. This in turn helps you to make the changes you so desperately want.
The ‘person-centred’ approach is fundamental to how I work and my aim is for you to trust in me and the relationship we build together.
What to expect
My aim is to provide an environment where you feel comfortable to share what you are experiencing without judgement; no matter your background. You get to set the pace and together we explore what is most urgent to you. My aim is for you to feel understood and feel able to live a life that is purposeful to you.
Step-by-step guide
Free consultation
I offer a 30 minute consultation, either in-person or on-line. This gives me the opportunity to share a little about how I work, whilst also giving you the chance to share a little about what brings you to counselling and ask any questions you may have.
My aim is for you to experience what it would be like to work together.
First session
If you decide to continue, your first session will be your opportunity to share a bit more about what is going on for you and what you would like to achieve, if you have a particular goal in mind. I will take the opportunity to ask clarifying questions along the way to ensure I understand.
We will then make arrangements to meet either weekly or fortnightly and secure our next session.
The
process
Each session will begin with an invitation to share, be that how you’re doing that day or what has been on your mind. No two sessions will be the same, as we will use this opening as a guide. I do not set homework; however you might find yourself thinking over the sessions in between. Some weeks might leave you feeling heavier than others, and I will provide guidance on how to look after yourself in between sessions where necessary.
My aim is for you to build a sense of trust in our working together and for you to find a way through what you are experiencing.
What I help with
You can find yourself seeking counselling for a range of reasons, and here are just a few areas I can support in
Stress and overwhelm
When you're holding on to so much that it begins to feel like you are going to break, counselling gives you a space to slowly unburden yourself of the weight
Loneliness
In a world where we are feeling lonelier than ever, counselling provides a relationship from which you can learn how to re-connect with yourself and others
Unhelpful habits
Finding yourself in patterns of behaviour that get in the way can be hard to break free from; counselling gives a space to talk without judgement and the opportunity to make the changes you want
Relationships
Relationships have the power to enrich our lives, but can be tricky to navigate. Counselling gives a space to make sense of what they mean to you and how to forge more fulfilling connections
Loss of purpose
When a lack of purpose or direction leaves you feeling stuck, counselling can help you to build trust in your own value and paves the way for something new
Anxiety
Anxiety is a necessary feeling that is designed to keep you safe, but what happens when it takes over? Working through your anxious thoughts in counselling can help loosen their grip on you so you can take back control
What I can't help with
Crisis support
Please contact The Samaritans on 116 123 or dial 999 in an emergency
Adoption counselling
Please contact a specialist adoption trained counsellor or Adoption Support Agency (ASA)
Children and young people counselling
Please contact a counsellor specialising in under 18's support
Couples/family counselling
Please contact a counsellor specialising in couples/family therapy