Areas I have a particular interest in.
Like some other counsellors, although I work with a broad range of issues, I have extra training and experience in dealing with certain issues.
There are issues I do not deal with:
No Quick Fixes
First, if you are looking for someone to tell you what to do without developing an understanding of why you are doing what you do and working together to identify how to resolve those issues, I may not be the right person for you.
My individual counselling style is to walk alongside you and compassionately challenge you and your behaviours safely while helping you identify pragmatic solutions to your difficulties.
See Your GP
I do not work with issues meant to be dealt with by medical doctors. For example, I do not work with people experiencing severe psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, etc. Nor do I work with people who cannot distinguish between reality and non-reality (e.g. psychosis or paranoid delusion). Mild phantasies (“I think no one likes me”) are OK to bring to counselling.
I am a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), not a Medical Doctor (GP). I am also a counsellor/psychotherapist, not a psychologist, psychiatrist, or psychoanalyst. I do not diagnose illness, label or categorise clients, or prescribe medication.
Willing Participants Only
I will not accept requests to see someone being “sent” to counselling by a third party, no matter how well intended.
Couple’s Counselling should not be used to try and ‘fix’ your partner, nor should your partner be ‘forced’ into counselling. Both parties must be willing participants who want to find a way ahead and understand what is happening. I will explore this aspect of counselling with anyone who comes for relationship counselling with me.
Over 18s Only
While my main focus is on working with men, I do work with many women who prefer a more masculine approach to counselling. However, I do not work with anyone, irrespective of gender, who is under 18 years old. Many charities and other counsellors can work with that age group more effectively than I do.
Other Issues
I may decline to work with other issues if I feel that another counsellor may be more qualified or experienced in helping you.
Remember.
I do not offer an ’emergency service’. You can go online and book an appointment at the earliest convenient time for you using my Google booking page
If you need emergency help, please get in touch with your GP and let them know it is urgent. Don’t just accept the next available appointment or contact the Samaritans.