My approach
Reaching out for support can feel like a big step.
Many people arrive feeling unsure about what counselling will be like, whether they'll be able to talk openly, or even where they would begin.
You don't need to prepare anything before we meet.
There is no expectation that you arrive with a clear plan or know exactly what you want to say.
We simply start with what feels most important to you.
“When someone really hears you without passing judgment on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mould you, it feels damn good.”
– Carl R. Rogers
How We Will Work Together
A conversation, not an interrogation
I know that talking to someone new can feel daunting.
Particularly when you have been carrying difficult thoughts or feelings on your own for a long time.
My role is not to analyse you, judge you or tell you what to do.
Instead, I offer a calm and supportive space where you can speak freely and be met with curiosity, compassion and respect.
Many clients tell me that having someone truly listen without trying to fix or rush them can feel surprisingly powerful.
Working at your pace
Some people come to counselling ready to talk.
Others need time to build trust before sharing more personal parts of their story.
Both are completely okay.
I believe that meaningful work happens when people feel safe enough to go at their own pace.
There is no pressure to discuss anything before you are ready.
You remain in control of what we explore and when.
Making sense of what feels difficult
Sometimes people come with a clear understanding of what is troubling them.
Often, they don't.
You might simply know that something doesn't feel right.
You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected from yourself, or unsure why you're reacting in the way you are.
Together we can gently explore what may be happening beneath the surface and begin to make sense of your experience.
Every person is different
No two people experience life in exactly the same way.
Because of this, I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.
Some clients find it helpful to reflect on their thoughts and feelings through conversation.
Others prefer a more creative approach, using writing, images, metaphors or other tools to help express things that are difficult to put into words.
We can adapt our work to suit you, your personality and what feels most comfortable.
A relationship built on honesty and trust
The relationship between myself and you is at the heart of the work we do together.
My aim is to create a space where you feel accepted as you are, without pressure to be different, stronger or more "together" than you feel.
A space where difficult emotions can be spoken about openly.
A space where you can explore things honestly and know that you will be met with warmth and understanding.
What matters to me as a counsellor
I believe people deserve to be met with compassion rather than judgement, especially during difficult times.
My aim is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be yourself, explore what's happening for you, and move at a pace that feels right.
I don't believe counselling is about having all the answers. Often it's about having the space to ask the questions that matter.
What you can expect from me
A warm, compassionate and non-judgemental space
Someone who listens carefully and takes your experiences seriously
Honesty, authenticity and respect
Sessions tailored to you as an individual
Support that moves at a pace that feels comfortable
A place where you don't have to have everything figured out
Taking the first step
Starting counselling doesn't mean you need to commit to having all the answers.
It simply means giving yourself the opportunity to be heard.
If you're considering counselling and would like to explore whether working together feels right for you, you're very welcome to book a consultation.
FAQs
Do I need to know what I want to talk about before starting?
Not at all.
Many people come to counselling knowing exactly what they want to talk about, while others simply know that something doesn't feel right and they're not sure where to begin.
You don't need to prepare anything or have the "right" words before your first session. We can start with whatever feels most important to you on the day, even if that's simply talking about how things have been feeling recently.
Part of my role is to help you make sense of what's going on at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
What if I find it difficult to open up?
That's completely okay.
Opening up to someone new can feel daunting, especially if you're used to coping on your own or have spent a long time keeping things to yourself.
There is no expectation that you share everything straight away. Counselling isn't about being pushed to talk before you're ready. We build trust over time, and you can share as much or as little as feels comfortable.
Many people are surprised by how naturally conversations begin to flow once they realise they're in a space where they won't be judged, rushed or expected to have everything figured out.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no set number of sessions.
Some people come for support during a particularly difficult period, while others find it helpful to have longer-term support as they adjust to life after a significant loss.
We can regularly review how things are feeling and decide together what feels right for you.