What is counselling?
Counselling is an opportunity to be heard in confidence and for your experiences to be held and worked through in a secure relationship with the counsellor. Counselling is a process of exploration and self-discovery to identify what supports and affirms you and what challenges and undermines you. Recognising how past and present events influence your thoughts and behaviour is the most important step to changing your life. While at times this process may require courage, the benefits can be life transforming.
How do I work as a counsellor?
Studies have shown that it is the relationship that develops between the counsellor and client that is key – it is far more important than any particular theoretical model used by the counsellor. Indeed many clients are more concerned with the outcome of counselling than the theoretical models used. For those who are interested, I work using an integrative model and counsel each client with an open-minded approach based on a person-centred, psycho-spiritual model. Where needed, I bring in whichever theoretical models then feel appropriate for the challenges raised, which could include: Mindfulness, Transpersonal, Psychosynthesis, Gestalt and Eco-psychology. My training and interest in art enables creative therapy, alongside talking therapy, to be an option.
How long and how often are the counselling sessions?
Sessions are usually scheduled for once a week and last 50 minutes for an individual and 75 minutes for a couple.. I work with clients for short and long term therapy which is determined between us as the work unfolds. For some, short term therapy works well, while others find they continue to benefit from coming for longer. My work can be either face to face or though remote video link such as Skype.
What are the fees?
The charge per session for an individual is £40 and for a couple is £55. Payment can either be by bank transfer or cash. As I explain above, the relationship between counsellor and client is crucial, so I therefore offer a free 30 minute introductory session. I also offer reduced rates for students – including students undertaking counsellor training. I am also currently offering reduced rates for key workers.
Where are the sessions held?
Sessions are currently held in my home; the Map tab gives address and direction details.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions or you wish to discuss an initial appointment.