How can counselling help me?
- No matter how close our family and how good our friends there are times in all our lives when we need to talk to someone who is outside the situation and with no “vested interest” in us taking one course of action or another.
- You may be experiencing personal difficulties that you want to keep private, or you may not want to “worry” or “burden” those you love and care about.
- You may be trying to make a decision about your future and need some space to think things through without other people influencing your thinking or you may be suffering after a loss and feel the need for some support whilst trying to protect those around you who are also experiencing the same loss.
- Sometimes in life we just feel that things are not quite right. We may not be able to put our finger on what “it” is but having some sessions of counselling may give you the space to investigate what is going on and how you want to move forward.
- Whatever reason has brought you to search for a counsellor you can be assured of a warm, non-judgemental welcome and someone who will work hard to understand how things are for you and accompany you as you find the way forward that is right for you.
What age group do you work with?
I work with clients from teenage to older adult.
Why should I choose a qualified and registered Counsellor?
- The fact is that neither the term “Counsellor” or “Psychotherapist” are what are known as “Protected Titles”. This means that anyone can advertise themselves as offering counselling and psychotherapy without any training.
- Choosing a Qualified Counsellor or Psychotherapist ensures that the professional you will be working with has a deep theoretical understanding, and experience of, the therapy they are offering.
In my case this involved 3 years of classroom study followed by the writing of a dissertation and successful completion of an oral examination with a panel of three assessors.
- In addition members of a Professional body such as the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) have to meet a recognised standard which is assessed by completion of a Certificate of Proficiency examination and we agree to be bound by the BACP Ethical Framework (http://www.bacp.co.uk/ethical_framework/new_ef.php) which lays out what is expected of us as Professionals.
- Once we are registered our details can be checked by looking at the BACP register http://www.bacpregister.org.uk/check_register/
- As members of the BACP we are required to hold Professional Indemnity Insurance, have a minimum of 1.5 hours of Clinical Supervision every month and to undertake a minimum of 30 hours training each year to keep our skills and knowledge up to date.
Will you tell anyone I am coming to see you, or what I talk about?
- No, I will not tell anyone you are coming to see me or what we discuss. We will discuss confidentiality at our first meeting and I will explain the rare circumstances under which I could be required to make a disclosure; even in these rare circumstances it would be with your knowledge and consent wherever possible.
What will sessions be like?
- Many people are comfortable with “traditional” talking therapy; where we sit together in a comfortable, quiet room and talk - however this does not suit everyone.
- I have a background, and interest, in creative arts and am happy to give you space to explore your world through writing and image making if this feels more suitable for you. I am not an Art Therapist, I will not “interpret” meaning from your work or guide you through a therapeutic process in art; however, I am keen that you use whatever means you find most helpful to understand your own thoughts and feelings and I will work to provide a safe space in which you can explore.
How many sessions will I need?
- I usually suggest we have 6 sessions initially but am happy to work with what is right for you. You may find that after the six (or even before) you have done what you needed, but if you want to continue with on-going work I am happy to continue to accompany you on your journey for as long as you need. There is no right or wrong here, everyone is different!
I am happy to offer both short and long term work.
How long is a session and what does it cost?
- I offer prospective private clients an initial session where we can meet and you can decide whether you would like to work together. This lasts up to 50 minutes and costs £20 to cover the cost of the room hire and my travel.
- Once we have decided to work together sessions are 50 minutes long and cost £50. A limited number of reduced fee sessions are available. Sessions will be on the same day and time each week.
Do you see counselling students?
- Yes I am happy to work with students, and used to completing the paperwork required by colleges.
Where can I have sessions?
- I currently work from rooms within
- ISIS Chiropractic Clinic
Tilers Road
Milton Keynes
MK11 3EA - Alternatives
Burchard Crescent
Shenley Church End
Milton Keynes
MK5 6LP - The Old Surgery
9 Pulford Road
Leighton Buzzard
LU7 1AB
- ISIS Chiropractic Clinic
What should I do if I need help now?
If you are in the UK you can talk to the Samaritans or outside UK contact the Befrienders.
I’m worried about a friend or relative, what should I do?
- Wherever possible talk to the person concerned and support them in accessing help via the avenues listed in “Need help right now?”. If this is not possible, and you believe they need immediate assistance, it may be useful to call their GP, NHS 111 or in cases of immediate risk 999 (In the UK).
- Caring for someone who is in distress can be a very difficult experience, remember to take care of yourself and perhaps consider getting some support for yourself from family and friends, a support group or your own therapy.
Useful links
The inclusion of material on this page in no way denotes recommendation or endorsement of the organisations listed. It is intended and designed to provide general information only. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided is accurate, it does not constitute legal or professional advice. No responsibility or liability is accepted for the contents of websites referred to by an external link.