What is counselling?
Counselling is an opportunity for you to be seen and heard, a chance for you to
gain a different perspective on your life.
I know that change is incredibly scary. Most of us have to first become so
uncomfortable where we are that eventually, staying the same is scarier than
changing.
I’d like to help you through the difficult times that you are in right now.
Improving people’s lives is my passion.
To hold on to issues – whether from childhood or more recent years – can keep us
in a place that is painful and confusing and can seem impossible to move on
from. This can lead to mental health problems such as anxiety or depression, or
some form of addiction that keeps you stuck. Talking through these issues with a
trained, non-judgemental professional can lead to a freedom and understanding
about yourself.
For parents of teenagers
You have enjoyed – loved – having kids. It changed your life. But now they’re
teenagers and things are not so easy or enjoyable anymore as they have a mind of
their own. They talk back and can be rude and non-committal. Different people
give you different advice – it’s all so confusing.
As a counsellor, I help parents improve their relationships with teenage kids
through better communication. I see myself first and foremost as a mother, to
four biological children and four foster children, all from different countries.
I feel like my life only really started when I became a mother. It is what I
have loved most in my life. But the confusing thing is, it has been so lovely
but also so hard at times. We’ve all had difficulties with relationships and not
least with our teenage kids. Sometimes I’ve felt it’s all too much and felt
overwhelmed and doubted my own abilities. But all I needed was a little less
criticism and a bit more help.
When I see others going through difficulties with their kids, and their lack of
confidence in their parenting skills, I get frustrated because I know that all
they need is a little support and encouragement to get them back on track. A
little time to find that confidence and to develop some communication skills.
If what you’re currently doing isn’t working, let’s find another way that does.
What happens in the first session?
Our first session will be an assessment session, where we get to know each other
and decide whether we can and want to work together. There is no obligation to
continue after your first session. The therapeutic relationship is key and
tailored to each client.
If we decide we can work together, we will agree a regular time each week to
meet.
I offer open-ended counselling as I think each individual grows and develops at
their own pace. I would, however, recommend a minimum of six sessions to allow
you a chance to get used to counselling and my style.
Please note that a 50% cancellation fee applies if less than 24 hours’ notice is
given.
