Counselling & psychotherapy -

"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced."

James Baldwin, 1962

“I’m fine”...”I’m okay”...”I’m just tired” How often do these words mask something bigger or deeper in us that we can’t find the words for? This might be your first time looking for support or you might have sought therapy a few times in your life and are looking for a place to work things out.

Therapy/counselling works by giving you the space to figure out what’s going on then decide what you would like to do. It’s not about giving you the answers (honestly I don’t have them) but I can help you find them by working with you to ask better questions of yourself.

As your therapist I can give you my time and attention, listen to you without judging what you are saying so you are able to work out what you would like to happen. The therapeutic relationship is different from a friendship or family bond, it is a contracted relationship where my focus is solely on helping you. You don't need to worry that you are taking up my time, talking too much (or too little) or not asking me how I am; I will be there alongside you in whatever you are going through.

Neil Bedwell (PNCPS Acc.)

What therapy can help with

Relationships

Anxiety

Identity

Depression

Stress

Bereavement

Loneliness

Life stages

Depression is often experienced as a disconnection from ourselves. More than just the odd 'bad day', depression can tell us there is no hope for the future. Therapy can help by giving you the space to explore your thoughts and feelings

Humans are social creatures, we need relationships and connection to thrive. Problems in romantic and family relationships can really affect us. Separation, betrayal, conflict, desire discrepancy, sex and estrangement can all be talked about in therapy so you can find clarity on what to do next.

Everyone worries about things sometimes but anxiety can feel like constantly being in panic mode. Although our thoughts often trigger anxiety, it is most felt in our bodies. A racing heartbeat, a tight chest or a sick feeling in the stomach are all signs that you are experiencing anxious feelings.

We are all made up of different identities that can define us. Sometimes different aspects of who we are can sometimes be in conflict and this can lead to confusion. Counselling gives you a space to explore issues such as gender, sexuality, race, religion, neurodiversity (ADHD & autism).

Loneliness is not necessarily about being alone but more about not being in connection. Things like social media can give us the illusion of connection but is like fast food compared to the fully balanced nutritious meal of real life connection.

Life only moves one way and at each stage of our life there are different challenges: Finding a direction, building a career, settling down, midlife restlessness, retirement, the challenges of old age. Each phase of life brings it's own unique mixture of difficulties and opportunities.

Loss is an inevitable part of living but knowing this doesn't make the bereavement process any easier. It can be devastating losing someone close to us and grief is as unique as our relationship with the person who has died. Counselling can help you talk about all the feelings you may be experiencing.

The modern world can often feel like living with the fast forward button stuck on. Pressures of work, family, friendship and finances can all take their toll on our physical and mental health. Therapy gives you the space to stop, breathe and rethink.

Choosing a counsellor can be difficult, it's important that you find someone you feel comfortable with. I offer a free 30 minute consultation either by phone or online - Fill your details in below and I will contact you to arrange your free consultation

Fees

£60 for a 60 minute session either in person or online

I have a limited amount of lower cost spaces depending on your circumstances, please get in touch and we can discuss what might work

What happens next?

• I will aim to get back to you within 48 hours via email

• We then arrange a suitable time for your free consultation

• You choose either a telephone call or online video call

• In the free consultation we can talk about what brings you to counselling, how I may be able to help and we can decide if we are a good fit to work together. I can also answer any questions or concerns you might have

• There's no obligation to book further sessions, the most important thing is for you to find the right counsellor for you, even if that's not me.

Herne Bay

Address

23 High Street

Herne Bay

CT6 5LJ

Ashford

Address

Repton Manor Health Clinic,

James Ewart Avenue, Ashford,

TN23 3SA

Herne Bay

Clinic 23

23 High Street

Herne Bay

CT6 5LJ

Please note this is not an emergency or crisis service

If you feel you are in crisis and can't keep yourself safe

If you have been experiencing any suicidal thoughts or require immediate help, please call 111, contact your GP or call the Samaritans on 116 123.

Ashford

Repton Manor Health Clinic,

James Ewart Avenue, Ashford,

Kent

TN23 3SA