What is person-centred counselling?

The person-centred counsellor aims to understand the client's experiences from their perspective. The client is the expert of their own feelings and experiences and so must be at the centre of the therapeutic work. The relationship between the client and the person-centred counsellor is of balance and relatedness. The person-centred counsellor accepts the client for who they are, no matter what is brought to session. This process of genuine acceptance by the counsellor leads to clients being open to better understand their own feelings. Person-centred counselling uses empathy and acceptance to facilitate clients reconnecting with their inner selves and sense of self worth. You, the client already possess the tools you need to help yourself , the counsellor is there to facilitate this process of discovery.

How do I know counselling is right for me?

This is a good question and it can be difficult to know until you begin sessions. However I do offer a free 15 minute consultation where you can ask me any questions and get a sense of our compatibility to work therapeutically together. It is important to remember as the client that it should be your choice which counsellor you work with. The therapeutic relationship is at the centre of our work and it is important for you to feel comfortable and safe.

How do I know if counselling is right for my child/teen?

In my experience the best thing to do is ask your young person if this is what they want. I find that counselling works best when the person attending sessions wants to be there. I suggest having an open conversation with your young person about their mental health, what it is they are struggling with and explain to them what counselling is about, and take it from there. This way you are involving them in their own mental health care and empowering them to make informed choices. If you are a young person reading this and would like to know more about counselling and your options please send me a message and we can have a free, informal chat.

I have recently been bereaved. Is it too soon for counselling?

I have been asked this question a lot. My advice is to do what feels right for you. You know more than anyone how you are feeling and if you would like to speak to me about your grief please feel free to message me. I have found that many client's want to know if what they are experiencing is 'normal' and quite often will only need a few sessions. However if you feel that you require long term therapeutic work for grief and loss I can also support you through this.

Will what I talk about during sessions be kept confidential?

Confidentiality is at the heart of my work and the basis for a trusting relationship to develop. What you choose to bring to the session will be treated with the upmost respect and confidentiality. Confidentiality will only be broken if I am made aware of a risk of harm to yourself or others. We will discuss this in more detail before we begin working together.

Will I know what to talk about?

This is your session, your time and space to talk about as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. I understand that some days will be harder than others to open up and that's ok. I will be by your side supporting you no matter what. Through the talking, the tears and the silence we can get through this together.

How long does a session last?

Each session is up to 50 minutes. I offer short term (up to 6 sessions) and long term (open ended) work.

Where will my sessions take place?

I offer in-person sessions at my family home. I am also experienced in working online with clients. This means that if one week you are unable to attend I may offer an online session as an alternative.

How much does a session cost?

Sessions are £60 for 50 minutes and payments are taken in advance via BACS.

What are your qualifications?

I am a qualified person-centred counsellor with a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. I have a BSc Psychology degree and am a qualified primary school teacher. I also have experience of working for children's social services.

Are you insured?

I am fully insured (a copy of my insurance certificate can be viewed on request prior to sessions commencing). I am also a registered member of the BACP and adhere to their ethical framework (more information can be found on their website: www.bacp.co.uk).

How to contact me?

Please send me an email: ttwcounselling@yahoo.com or give me a call on: 07488319373. I aim to respond to messages within 48 hours.