Available Services

On the initial counselling session will be the introduction, discussing information on the forms, what brings you to counselling, what outcome are you looking for and a plan going forward such as how many sessions we agree, processes of counselling in terms of the reviews, ending the sessions, confidentiality and any other questions you may have. It is vital these things are discussed and confirmed from the outset, this way we can both work together to achieve the best outcome for you. Take the opportunity at this session to ask as many questions as you need. Sessions will be for 1 hour; however, the last 10 minutes will be used to review the session. 

Walk and Talk

I can offer sessions outside in a location that has been agreed by both you and me. Some people find by just being in an outside space more beneficial for their well being. It means we are not restricted and therefore have the benefits of fresh air and walking. Or if you prefer we can find a bench in an appropriate location. This type of therapy is especially popular in the summer months.

In the comfort of your own home

I can consider undertaking therapy in the comfort of your own home. This is more for people who have limited mobility or young people. Risk assessment will be undertaken beforehand and may not always be possible but please ask if this is something you might want to consider.  

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The first thing to know is that counselling sessions are guided by you, so you have no obligation to fulfil, and I will not have expectations of you. This means that it’s up to you when it ends or whether your appointments change in frequency. I am not there to push you to talk about something that makes you feel uncomfortable. All conversations will be led by you not the other way around. If, however you have engaged in a conversation but then feel you are uncomfortable then you have a right to say, and we can move on. It’s important to remember that as your counsellor I am working in your best interest, even if you may doubt that at times. My aim is to support you in exploring and understand your feelings – enabling you to bring about positive changes in your mental and emotional wellbeing. I am not there to tell you what to do but I will support you to seek the answers yourself.

Being able to talk openly about your reasons for seeking counselling is important. I may also ask you about certain causes of triggers for problems that you are experiencing. For example, some people suffer from severe stress and anxiety due to having very demanding jobs. If this is the case, then I may want to discuss some of the challenging aspects of your job to get a greater picture of why these issues are happening. Discussions about your issues will be elaborated on in the future sessions. You may also come to realise some problems that are beneath the surface that you were not aware of until going through the session.

Unfortunately, we are now living in times where people are suffering more with mental health and resources are becoming limited. This means that there are a lot of people suffering who are on long waiting lists with the NHS. Not everyone is in a financial position to seek private counselling. If this is, you or someone you know and have been to see a doctor and have been placed onto an NHS waiting list of more than 8 weeks then please contact me to discuss what I will be able to offer as an interim measure whilst you are waiting to see someone. I would need a referral or confirmation from your GP

I can help to resolve any issue you may be experiencing with child contact and finances surrounding this if you are unable to come to an agreement yourselves. I am not there to make suggestions or to tell you what you should or shouldn’t do. I am merely an independent person who will help you to find the answers yourselves and to resolve any difficult agreements that you may be experiencing. This will be done via zoom at an agreed time by all parties. Mediation can also be helpful when arrangements you’ve made before need to change, particularly as your children grow up. The process is less stressful and significantly quicker than going to court and can save you money. Please note before you make a referral ‘both parties need to agree for mediation to take place’ I am not able to force any party to agree in mediation.

Counselling can support many issues that may present in everyday life. Below is a list of some issues I can work with but not limited to. If you present with an issue that is out of my remit, I will be able to help you to seek the correct professional that is best to support you. Please contact me if you are experiencing an issue with something that is not on this list.

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· Depression

· Sadness of feeling lonely

· Loss and bereavement

· Stress and anxiety

· Work related issues

· Family issues

· Relationship issues

· Negative body image

· Anger issues

· Suicidal thoughts

· Drug and alcohol issues

· Bullying

· Childhood issues

· Neglect

· All forms of abuse

· Low self esteem

· Self-harm

· Financial issues

· Gender issues

· Homelessness

· Diversity issues

· Child contact issues