As a trained humanistic and integrative counsellor; I believe that my clients take responsibility for themselves, their choices in life and the capacity to fulfil their potential. I place importance on the quality and realness of our therapeutic relationship as a key to success. Within this framework, such things as the way you think, feel, and sense will be emphasised. I work with you as a ‘whole person’ within the context of specific issues or problems that you are trying to resolve.

Psychodynamic Counselling

As a ‘psychodynamic counsellor’ I use a variety of well established theoretical frameworks and ideas. The way I work differs from client to client, and is responsive to the different needs presented by each client.

Core values

I apply the following core values to my work:

Individuality - You are a unique individual with your own unique life experience.

Partnership - We work together as equal partners.

Autonomy - Only you can affect change in your life.

Care - I will always support you throughout your counselling journey, particularly at times when things are difficult for you.

To work together effectively we need to develop an authentic and trusting relationship. The need for counselling normally arises from a significant issue or problem, that cannot be resolved alone. However it is not a ‘quick fix’. Ultimately it is you, and not the counsellor that must develop sufficient personal insight and capacity to facilitate your own change. As a guide, I normally recommend that a minimum of 12 sessions are needed to build sufficient relational depth to start a gradual shift, in what might be deeply engrained ways of being. I see clients for short term work (12 sessions) but also for considerably longer; particularly where we are working with deeply seated issues that stem back from childhood.

Sessions last 50 minutes, and are usually held at the same time and place each week. Consistency and rhythm are important when we experience emotional turbulence in our lives. The whole session belongs to you. I will be there if you attend or not. If you arrive late, our session will still end at the planned time.

Cancellations:

If you are unable to attend a session, the required notice for cancellation is 24 hours. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice are charged. When ever possible I will try to accommodate any unforeseen changes, with an alternative date.

Missing Sessions:

If you do not attend your session, you will be charged the full session fee.

Holidays:

I will give you as much notice as possible when I have holidays or planned breaks. I encourage my clients to do the same.

I try to ensure that you have the time and space to describe what is going on in your life, and how you feel about what you say. Towards the end of a session - depending on what you bring - I will respond by offering some insights around how we might usefully work together, along with an overview of my standard ‘working agreement’. This explains the ethical, administrative and financial arrangements of working together.

I always make a point of giving clients time to reflect on their first session, before committing to the counselling process.

I encourage you to talk to other therapists. Find a therapist you feel comfortable with and who is relationally attuned to your needs.

If I don’t feel I can you help - I will tell you. This might arise if you have a specific issue, where working with a different therapist who has direct experience or expertise relating to your needs, would prove more beneficial. I have an excellent network of colleagues with a broad range of specialist experience.

Yes, but only if meeting in person is not possible. I have considerable experience working online, however I usually only offer online counselling once a client relationship has been established. Whilst the online environment can be very effective for certain types of counselling; the limitations of even the best available technology ; are not ideally suited to the type of therapy I offer.