How I Work

You may well be wondering what happens when you see a counsellor for the first time. I am hoping I will answer those questions here, but I also offer a short call for you to ask me anything I haven’t answered. I don’t have a set way of working and like to work with you in a way that feels comfortable and allows you to begin to share more about yourself and what you are hoping for from therapy. Seeing a counsellor for the first time can feel daunting, yet for those who take the first step it can prove a rewarding and life changing experience.

I find that two of us sitting in silence is not helpful, so if you are worried about what to talk about or where to start, I will help you. You choose how you want to share your story. Some people come to the session with a lot to say and need to just talk and talk. Others feel more comfortable with me asking questions. Together we will find a way that feels comfortable for you.

For those who have had counselling before, alongside listening I offer explanations, reflections and alternative perspectives. I ask questions to help us both understand your emotions and experiences. We will explore techniques to help you manage and cope with the situations and difficulties of your life. I like to include creative options and mindfulness techniques as well as listening in a non-judgemental way.

How does this help? It helps by having a space where you are able discuss how you are feeling, often just naming how we are feeling brings a sense of relief. Talking and being listened to in this way helps make sense of what is bothering you. You will begin to understand and work through painful or harmful feelings and thoughts.  As the sessions progress it is usual to find you experience more positive feelings and greater confidence in your own abilities to deal with what is happening in your life.

By noticing patterns and behaviours that are no longer helpful we discover alternatives. You can start to recognise distorted thinking about yourself or the situation. This allows you to able to ask is this true?

You will have the space and time to process whatever you need for as long as you need. It may be a few sessions; it can be longer; you are the one who chooses. If this sounds like I might be of help get in touch on 07874 764425 or contact me here.

These are some of the things people have experienced when they come to counselling with me.

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Low Mood
• Stress
• Self Harm
• Suicidal thoughts
• Eating Disorders
• Bereavement
• Trauma