Counselling
Initial Consultation
Before we begin working together, I offer a brief telephone consultation to discuss what brings you to counselling and to see if we might be a good therapeutic fit. This is an opportunity for you to ask any questions and for us both to get a sense of whether I'm the right counsellor to support you at this time.
There's no pressure or commitment, it's simply a chance to have an initial conversation about your needs and how I might be able to help.
First session
Your first counselling session will include approximately 20 minutes dedicated to assessment, where we'll explore your background, current situation, and what you hope to achieve through counselling. This helps me understand your individual needs and tailor my approach accordingly.
The remaining time will focus on beginning our therapeutic work together, creating a foundation for the sessions that follow.
Tailored Counselling for You
I believe that every person is unique, which is why I offer an integrative approach to counselling. This means I don't follow a one-size-fits-all method. Instead, I draw from different therapeutic approaches to create a plan that's built specifically around your individual needs, experiences, and goals.
For some clients, this might mean using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to work through specific thought patterns. For others, a person-centred approach that focuses on your own insights and self-discovery might be more helpful. I also draw from Transactional Analysis (TA) and trauma-informed practice, depending on what will best support your particular situation.
Sometimes talking alone can feel difficult, which is why I also use creative therapy approaches as part of my holistic practice. Creative therapy uses non-verbal tools and artistic processes to help you explore your thoughts and feelings in different ways. For example, I use sandtray therapy, where you can create miniature scenes using figurines and symbols in a sandbox, offering a safe space to express inner experiences that might be hard to put into words. Stacking dolls help represent different layers of yourself, allowing you to explore complex identities, hidden emotions, or past experiences in a tangible, visual way. Tools like the Emotion Wheel can help you identify and articulate feelings you may struggle to express verbally. These creative approaches foster self-awareness, emotional understanding, and deeper insights, making them powerful tools for personal growth and healing.
What this means for you is that our work together will be shaped by what you need, not by what a textbook says should work. We'll adapt our approach as we go, ensuring that the support you receive is truly tailored to help you move forward.
How I Work
I offer flexible counselling to suit your needs and circumstances. Some people benefit from short-term work focused on a specific issue, while others prefer longer-term support for deeper exploration and growth. There's no pressure to commit to a set number of sessions, we can review how things are going as we work together.
Sessions are available face-to-face in my comfortable, discreet room in Aylesbury with free parking and disabled access. I also offer online sessions via secure video call or telephone counselling, which many clients find just as effective and can be more convenient if you have mobility issues or other commitments.
What I Can Help With
I support people through a wide range of challenges including:
Emotional Wellbeing
Anxiety, panic and stress, depression and low mood, grief and loss, trauma and emotional overwhelm, low self-esteem and confidence issues.
Relationships & Life Changes
Relationship difficulties, family conflicts, life transitions and major changes, identity struggles and personal development.
Specialist Area:
I have particular experience working with chronic illness and pain, supporting both individuals and families affected by conditions such as MS, Parkinson's and Stroke. Living with a serious health condition brings unique challenges that extend beyond the physical symptoms.
Whether you're dealing with a specific challenge or simply feeling stuck and unsure of your next steps, I'm here to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace.
Counselling for Teenagers & Young Adults
The teenage years and early adulthood can be particularly challenging times. Young people today face unique pressures, including academic stress, social media comparison, identity questions, family expectations, and uncertainty about their future. Issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, friendship difficulties, family conflicts, and feeling overwhelmed are common during this stage of life.
As a parent, watching your teenager struggle can feel heartbreaking. You want to help, but it's not always clear how. Sometimes young people find it easier to talk to someone outside the family about what's really going on for them.
I work with young people aged 16 and over, providing a safe, non-judgmental space where they can explore their feelings and develop healthy coping strategies. My approach is collaborative – I don't tell young people what they should do, but instead help them discover their own strengths and find their own solutions.
I also recognise that supporting a young person often means supporting their family too. I can help parents understand what their teenager is experiencing and provide guidance on how to best support them at home. This isn't about changing your parenting – it's about understanding your young person's world and finding ways to strengthen your relationship with them during this important time.
Ready to Start?
If you'd like to find out more about how counselling might help you, I'd be happy to have a brief conversation about your situation. There's no commitment – just an opportunity to discuss your needs and see if we might be a good fit to work together.
Get in touch
Thank you for reaching out. Taking the first step to seek support can feel difficult, and I'm here to help make the process as easy as possible for you.
I'd be happy to have a brief conversation about how counselling might help you. There are several ways you can contact me:
Phone: 07968361759
You can also use the contact form below to send me a message, and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.