How I work
I have been in private practice for almost 25 years, and believe the most important part of how I work, is not the specific theoretical approach used , but the relationship that develops between myself and my client. I adapt to the needs of the individual / couple allowing creativity and flexibility to be explored within the boundary of the work.
Through the counselling process, I help clients gain self-awareness around the issues they are experiencing, along with insight and understanding of unhelpful patterns of relating, behaving or thinking which may well have developed roots in childhood. Counselling is not about giving advice but helping the person to find the answers and way of being which are right for them.
How I can help you
I know it is not always easy, and can often be daunting, coming for counselling, whether as an individual or as a couple. I am here to help support you gain a better understanding of the issues that have been preventing you from living the life you want.
I am always supportive, as well as challenging in a respectful way where necessary, which enables clients to make choices around how they wish to live their lives moving forward, in a way which is healthier and more fulfilling.
In my practice I use a number of different approaches including:
- Person centred therapy
- Psychodynamic
- Gestalt
- Solution focused
- Cognitive behaviour therapy.
I have successfully helped clients with a wide range of issues including:
- Bereavement of a loved one
- Loss of pregnancy
- Infertility
- Abortion
- Pregnancy and birth
- Menopause
- Relationship difficulties
- Trauma
- Affairs and betrayals
- Divorce
- Low self-esteem/confidence
- Depression and or anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Sexual and emotional abuse
- Midlife crisis
- Getting older and feeling around ill health
- Work related issues including stress
- Cancer
- Carers support
Sessions
Usually sessions are face to face but at this present time due to Covid 19 all sessions are taking place remotely either using video or by telephone. Sessions are for 1 hour and generally take place at the same time and day on a weekly basis. However there may be some flexibility for example shift workers.
Cancellations / Missed Sessions
If you are unable to attend a session I need 48 hours notice; if less than 48 hours notice is given I will charge for that missed session. For sessions held on a Monday, cancellations need to be made by the previous Friday. The same applies over a bank holiday period. I appreciate as much notice as possible for any holiday leave.
Ethics and Standards
I adhere to the Ethical Framework of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) at all times.