Taking the first step can feel daunting, especially if you've never done it before. That's completely normal. Reaching out is often the hardest part, and the fact that you're here shows real courage.
If you have never been to counselling, or you're not sure where to start, I offer a 15-minute initial consultation at no obligation. We can arrange this by phone or email. It's a chance for me to introduce myself, for you to talk about what's brought you here, and for us both to see if we're a good fit. There's no expectation of commitment at this stage.
This is the foundation of how I work. Psychodynamic therapy is about understanding the connection between your past experiences and your present struggles. We look at patterns you might repeat, relationships that echo earlier ones, and feelings that seem bigger than the situation warrants. It's not about dwelling in the past for its own sake. It's about seeing how yesterday shapes today, so you can move forward with more freedom.
As a psychodynamic therapist, I'm also interested in the relationship we build together in the counselling room. Sometimes, the way we experience relationships in everyday life can show up in therapy too. I may gently invite curiosity about how you experience me, our conversations, or the therapeutic relationship itself, as this can offer valuable insight into your patterns, feelings, and ways of relating. This isn't about me analysing you. It's about using what happens between us as a mirror to understand yourself more deeply.
While I work primarily from a psychodynamic foundation, I've also trained in CBT and find it useful for certain challenges. If you're dealing with anxiety, specific phobias, or unhelpful thought patterns, CBT techniques can offer practical tools alongside the deeper exploratory work. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. I draw on what's most helpful for your particular situation.
I offer sessions both online and in person from my practice in central Durham. Online sessions work via Microsoft Teams or Google Meet, giving you the flexibility to access support from wherever feels comfortable. In-person sessions provide a dedicated physical space away from daily distractions.
Sessions can be short-term and focused, typically around 12 sessions for a specific issue, or open-ended for longer-term exploratory work. I work with flexible hours to fit around your commitments. What matters is finding a rhythm that works for you.
Relationships can be the most rewarding and the most challenging parts of our lives. When things aren't working, it affects everything. You might be arguing constantly, or perhaps barely talking at all. Maybe trust has been broken, or you've drifted apart and can't find your way back.
Couples counselling offers a space where both of you can be heard. It's not about taking sides. It's about understanding the patterns between you, what's not being said, and what each of you actually needs.
I work with couples facing communication breakdowns, infidelity, intimacy issues, and the question of whether to stay together or separate. Sometimes, couples want to save the relationship. Other times, they need support in ending it with honesty and respect.
We'll explore how you each experience the relationship, what's happening beneath your conflicts, and whether there's a way forward that works for both of you.
If you have any questions about counselling and psychotherapy, I'm happy to talk things through. Please get in touch to arrange your initial consultation. There’s no obligation. It’s just a chance for us to chat and see if we want to work together.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life. If something has been troubling you that affects your well-being, seeking out extra support is beneficial. By seeking counselling, you are making a commitment to reflect and find a way to move forward. Counselling provides you support and tools to overcome the challenges you face.
Seeking out counselling is a personal choice. People choose to have counselling if something causes depression, anxiety, or stress. Sometimes it could be issues from the past that are having an impact on your day to day life. Counselling can help address many issues, including conflict, grief, stress management, and transitions in life. If you're still not sure, the best way for things to become clearer is to book an initial session with a counsellor.
Every counselling session is unique and caters to an individual and their specific goals. I usually use the first one or two sessions, to talk about the concerns or questions you may have about your issues or the counselling process itself. This is an opportunity for you to figure if this is for you and there is no expectation of a continued commitment at this stage. Once you decide to continue, the therapy could be time-limited (12 sessions for example) or open-ended.
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule.
Exceptions include:
1. Suspected child abuse, dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
2. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
3. If a client intends to harm themselves. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
Several benefits can come out of counselling. Some of the benefits can include:
• Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
• Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Better management of emotions such as anger, grief and depression
• Tracking down new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
• Building on your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
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