When you enter into counselling it is unlike any other relationship you have. Counselling is a unique process, a one-to-one professional relationship between a trained counsellor and yourself and is completely focused on you as the individual. Between us, we agree to meet regularly (and in private), for a certain number of sessions, with the aim of supporting you to work on the issues you bring and resolve any distress. It is a safe place where you can be yourself and say what you really think and feel, without any fear of criticism or judgement. There are clear boundaries and a contract in place to ensure your wellbeing is safeguarded within the work undertaken.
Talking about your thoughts and feelings is an essential part of the process, which might feel awkward or unusual to start with, especially if you are used to keeping these to yourself. However, when you are worried or concerned about a situation, counselling can help you find a clearer understanding of your thoughts and emotions.
A trained counsellor listens to what you say (and do) with care and pays attention to everything that matters to you. If you are unable to ‘see the wood for the trees’, meeting with a counsellor can help you see and develop your own strengths, resources and opportunities that you may not have been able to see before.
Adlerian counselling particularly focuses on helping individuals understand the thoughts, drives, and emotions that influence their lifestyles. People in counselling are also encouraged to acquire a more positive and productive way of life by developing new insights, skills, and behaviours. See The Adlerian Approach to Counselling & Therapy for more information.
Additionally, as of September 2024, I am undertaking training with the EMDR academy, and therefore am able to offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy) in addition to my core Adlerian therapy. For more details about EMDR, please see links section.
The particular areas in which I have specialist experience are:
- Anticipatory Grief and Bereavement
- Health related issues including life changing diagnoses and cancer (for the patient or carer / family member)
- Loss (in any form)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma and/or Abuse
- Challenges arising from Neurodiversity or a Disability diagnosis
- Stress and/or work-related issues
- Self-harm and/or suicidal thoughts
- Issues arising from low self-esteem
