Counselling Services

“I see mental wellbeing not as a destination but as a process, its more about how we drive, not where we go”

Noam Shpancer

I work within a pluralistic framework which means there is not one fixed way of working as clients are likely to want and benefit from different things. I draw from a variety of effective methods and techniques such as:

  • Person-centred therapy,
  • Integrative
  • Solution focused therapy
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy
  • Gestalt therapy
  • Psychodynamic
  • Compassion focused
  • Acceptance and commitment
  • Transactional analysis
  • Existential
  • Mindfulness
I also offer a range of different styles of working, so for example a coaching method might be best suited if you wish to focus on more practical coping skills, or you might prefer a deeper more exploratory method focusing on making sense of past experiences/childhood, looking at attachment styles or patterns and themes that no longer serve you.

Alternatively, an unstructured approach may benefit those who prefer to be more organic, allowing topics to come up more naturally.

“Working pluralistically means keeping you the client, at the heart of therapy”.

Meta-communication (talking about what goes on between us and the process of therapy itself) is threaded throughout my practice. It involves working together to make informed choices, as well as the use of any previous experience of counselling to guide us. We discuss what it is you want from therapy and how we might go about achieving that.

Together with your preferences and expertise in your own life, combined with my skills, training and experience, we will tailor a way of working that suits you best.

Commonly asked questions:

What is Counselling:

Counselling is a talking therapy that allows you to untangle, process and understand thoughts feelings and behaviours that shape your past and current experiences. It is a safe, empathic space that allows you to be your authentic self without judgement. It can offer new insights and learning, as well as help you discover and break any unhelpful repeat patterns of behaviour. Counselling can at times be uncomfortable, but your counsellor will work alongside you to help you feel safe and grounded at the times you need it the most.

What types of therapy do you use?

Some of the therapies I offer include: Psychodynamic Therapy, Person-Centred Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Existential Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

What types of clients do you work with?

Adults, Young people, Older adults.

What areas of counselling do you work in?

Grief, loss and bereavement, Abuse, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Compulsive behaviour, Suicidal thoughts, Self-harm, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Sexuality, nervous system regulation, Relationships, Low self-esteem, in addition to a wide range of others.

How often should I attend sessions?

Sessions are held on a weekly basis, they can be short term or long term and can either be agreed at the start or remain open-ended, depending on the needs of the individual. It is recommended to start with at least 6 sessions, but this is negotiable.

Once I’ve agreed to proceed, what happens next?

There is a small amount of administration which includes a short questionnaire to fill in before your first session.

The first session is spent gathering information, as well as a Contractual Agreement to sign, covering things like dates and times of sessions, confidentiality and general good practice. Its also a chance to ask any questions about me and my practice, as well as any other questions you may have.

How long is a session?

Sessions are 50 minutes.

Can I combine online and in person sessions?

Yes.., if there are times you can’t make face to face, we can alternate with online via Zoom or over the phone.

How much does it cost?

£50 for 50 minutes with a free initial telephone or online session. I have a limited number of spaces I can offer concessions for clients on low incomes.

Endings

This is usually open ended depending on the needs of the individual or we can agree an ending at the start of therpay

What if I can’t make a session?

Phone or message me 48 hours beforehand otherwise you will be be charged.

What is the difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy focuses more on long-term issues and growth, while counselling aims to help people resolve current issues.