Is counselling for you?
Maybe you're going through a breakup, a bereavement, or stress at work. Maybe you finally feel ready to deal with a trauma from years past. Maybe you're struggling with depression or anxiety. Or maybe there's nothing really wrong, but life feels like something to be endured rather than enjoyed. Whatever it is, talking about it can help.
I've struggled with mental health issues myself and I know how daunting it can be to ask for help. But if you're willing to put the work in, counselling can help you cope with a difficult situation or make changes in your life.
About me
What kind of counsellor am I?
I offer person-centred counselling. I'd be happy to explain more about what this means, and discuss whether this is right for you, in a short initial phone call, or give you some information by email. Essentially, though, I believe that we all see the world very differently, and have different experiences and values, but most of us are instinctively trying to do our best, and be the best versions of ourselves. Sometimes life gets in the way of that, and we need a bit of help to get back in touch with ourselves and find the answers that are within us.
I'm a trained counsellor, but I'm not the expert on you, and I don't have all the answers. But I will care about you, listen to you, and support you in figuring things out. I can't do the work for you, but I can do it with you.
What will counselling with me be like?
What that work will look like is a bit different for every client. Some clients are going through something very painful and need a space where it's OK to be sad, angry, or overwhelmed. I can give them a space where it's safe to express those feelings. With other clients, things are a little more lighthearted and there can be room for a bit of humour. Some of my clients want to just turn up each time and see what spills out, whereas others like to come with a plan for every session. Your hour with me is your time, and it's up to you.
What's my background?
I have a Masters in Clinical Counselling from the University of Chester. I've also undertaken training in other areas such as online and telephone counselling, solution-focussed brief therapy, and trauma-focussed therapy. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and abide by their ethical framework.
Before going into private practice, I worked for nearly four years at a counselling charity offering free and low-cost counselling to members of the community. I also volunteered as a Listener for the Samaritans.
I am DBS checked and have professional indemnity insurance.
"Be curious, not judgmental"
I'm not sure who said this first - it's been misattributed to Walt Whitman - but I heard it recently and felt it really summed up my approach to counselling. I'm not here to judge you; I'm interested in you and want to help you explore and learn about yourself. Who are you? What have you been through in your life? What makes you tick? Could you be kinder to yourself or happier in your own skin? Let's find out, together.
Schedule a session
II'm currently offering counselling to UK-based clients over 18. I can offer counselling by phone, online, or face-to-face at my premises in Macclesfield, Cheshire.
Sessions are £50 (online/phone) or £60 (face-to-face) per 50 minutes. I also have a limited number of concessionary slots at £30 per hour for those on no or low income.
Please drop me an email and we can book in for a free 15-minute chat to see if counselling with me is right for you.
07434 645857
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