Counselling
Normally by the time you get to start searching for a counsellor you have probably reached the point of “something has to change”, or a friend has recommended it.
What is counselling?
Counselling is a talking therapy that provides a supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It’s not about getting advice or seeking quick fixes, but about enabling you to understand yourself and your experiences.
Many people come to counselling when they feel stuck, lost or overwhelmed. Others come because they want help with processing a specific event. Whatever brings you here, counselling can help you to make sense of what you’re going through so that you can begin to feel more in control of your life again.
At its heart, counselling is a two-way process. Together, we will explore the difficulties you’re facing, identify patterns that may no longer be serving you, and work towards greater ease and wellbeing. Over time, many clients find that counselling not only helps them manage current issues but also builds their long-term emotional resilience.
How can counselling help you?
Everyone’s experience of counselling is different, but many people find it beneficial in ways they hadn’t expected. Talking things through with someone who is trained to listen deeply and without judgement can be a hugely relieving and empowering experience.
Counselling can help with:
My Specialisms
While I support clients with a broad range of issues, I have particular interest and specialisms in working with anxiety, depression and stress.
Anxiety can take many forms from general unease or worry to intense panic or phobias. A person with anxiety often feels like their mind is racing ahead, anticipating danger or imagining worst-case scenarios. In our work together, we’ll look at how anxiety is affecting your life and what may be causing it. With time, we can develop strategies to help reduce its grip and bring about a greater sense of calm and steadiness.
Depression often brings a sense of heaviness, hopelessness or disconnection. It can be difficult to find the motivation to do things that once brought you joy and even harder to talk about it. Counselling provides a place where these feelings can be spoken about openly and compassionately. We’ll work together to gently understand the roots of your low mood and work towards feeling more engaged with life again.
Stress is a common part of modern life, but when it becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can affect every area of your wellbeing. Whether you’re facing pressure at work, navigating difficult personal circumstances, or feeling the cumulative strain of “holding it all together,” counselling can help you find clarity and give you breathing space. We’ll explore what’s contributing to your stress and find ways to help you feel more balanced.
Is Counselling Right For You?
You don’t need to have a clear goal when you begin counselling. Sometimes people come with a specific issue in mind and sometimes they just know that things don’t feel quite right. Your sessions will be guided by what you bring and what feels most important to you.
In our first meeting, we’ll talk about what has brought you to counselling and what you’re hoping for from the process. There is no pressure to share anything before you feel ready. From there, we’ll work together to create a space where you can feel supported and understood.
Sessions are typically weekly and last for 50 minutes. Counselling support can be short-term or longer-term depending on your needs and preferences. Everything we talk about is held in strict confidence and I work in accordance with the ethical guidelines of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy).