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. People usually seek counselling when they are facing difficulties that feel hard to resolve alone. Whilst therapy can be profoundly helpful, it is rarely a quick fix. Ultimately, meaningful change comes from your growing capacity for insight, understanding and self-awareness, supported by the therapeutic relationship.

As a guide, I generally recommend a minimum of 12 sessions. This allows sufficient time for trust to develop and for us to begin exploring patterns of thought and behaviour that may be longstanding or deeply ingrained. Some clients come for short-term work, while others choose to continue for longer, particularly when working with issues that have their roots in earlier life experiences and 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.

Consistency, Cancellations and Holidays

Therapy is most effective when it takes place within a consistent and reliable framework — the same time, the same place and the same therapist each week. This regularity helps create the safety, trust and continuity needed for meaningful therapeutic work. Of course, there may be occasions when either of us needs to rearrange a session.

Cancellations

If you are unable to attend a session for any reason, I ask that you provide at least 48 hours' notice. Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice will be charged at the full session fee. Wherever possible, I will try to accommodate unforeseen circumstances by offering an alternative appointment in the same week. 

Missed Sessions

If you do not attend a scheduled session without prior notice, the full session fee will be payable.

Holidays and Planned Breaks

I will give you as much notice as possible of any holidays or planned breaks in my practice. I encourage clients to do the same, as this helps us plan our work together and maintain continuity where possible.

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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. When meeting in person is not possible, online counselling can be an effective alternative. I have considerable experience working online, although I generally prefer to establish the therapeutic relationship face-to-face before moving to remote sessions. While online therapy offers flexibility and convenience, it also has limitations. If online work is your only option, we can discuss together whether it is the right approach for you.