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The Dorset Practice

Specialists in Face-to-Face, Online, Telephone Counselling and Therapy Services for Dorset and the South West.

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Tel. 01202 022100

Our experienced team of associate practitioners, counsellors and therapists offer a wide range of specialities, therapies and services.

We have a team of experienced associates offering confidential counselling, psychotherapy and therapy on a short-term and open-ended basis. We are here to support the mental health and emotional wellbeing of individuals, couples and families.

Tel. 01202 022100
Our Therapists
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Jane Zoega

Managing Director & Psychotherapist

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James Morris

Psychotherapeutic Counsellor & Psychotherapist

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Dr Sophia Chambers

Clinical Psychologist

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Barbara Perini

Psychotherapist  

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Emma Wheatley

Counsellor

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Nicole Uprichard

Integrative Counsellor and Coach

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Katherine Gentry Coyne

Counsellor

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Kim Zepler

Counsellor

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Mattia Venuti

Osteopath and Sports Massage

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Rianne Lutchmaya

Osteopath.

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Antony O`Toole

Counsellor

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Julie Barrett

NLP and Hypnotherapy Practictioner

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Katie Timoszenko

Laser Teeth Whitening

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Carol Bendinelli

Counsellor

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Camilla Sant

Counsellor

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Julie Fisher-Thomas

Counsellor

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Nikila Davis

Counsellor

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Lucy Cruickshank

Counsellor

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Marisa
Whitty

Counsellor

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Nathelie Tudberry

Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist

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Gillian Brake

Counsellor

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Tammie Jones

CYP Counsellor

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Low Cost Therapy

Please see:

Poole Community Counselling CIC - Not for Profit Community Interest Company - Providing Low Cost Counselling to the Poole and Wider Area

Aiming to deliver transformational counselling and mental health support that is accessible and affordable.

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Jane Zoega, MSc, BSc (hons.)
Managing Director, Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor

Jane is an experienced psychotherapist and an accredited member of the BACP and specialises in various therapeutic modalities such as Existential Psychology, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFCT), Schema Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Jane specialises in working with couples and individuals, employing an attachment-focused approach and integrating Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques for couples. With a core emphasis on understanding attachment dynamics, she helps couples explore how early attachment experiences shape their present relationship dynamic. Jane creates a safe therapeutic space where couples can deepen their emotional connection, address conflicts and enhance communication.
Beyond couples therapy, Jane also offers individual counselling, applying her attachment lens to assist clients in addressing personal issues and relational patterns.

Jane is committed to supporting couples and individuals in building healthier and more fulfilling relationships through the therapeutic process and the therapeutic relationship.
Where the damage has taken place within a relationship, the healing can take place in a therapeutic relationship.

With her experience in working with survivors of childhood abuse, Jane’s expertise extends to individual and couple therapy, where she employs her knowledge of Attachment Theory, and is qualified to conduct Adult Attachment Interviews (AAI). Her involvement as co-author of the book “Counselling Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse: From Hurting to Healing” further underscores her dedication to supporting individuals in their healing journey.

Additionally, Jane’s role as a clinical supervisor both in private practice and Poole Community Counselling CIC highlights her commitment to ensuring high standards of care within the field of psychotherapy.

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James Morris, MSc
Psychotherapist

James is a qualified humanistic psychotherapist and an accredited member of the BACP & UKCP. His safe, non-judgmental approach to therapy provides a space for you to express yourself freely. James brings both personal understanding and professional skill to his work – he transitioned to psychotherapy after a successful 12-year career as a company director, culminating in a 5-year psychotherapy master's degree.

His integrative training blends Gestalt and person-centred therapies with evidence-based mindfulness techniques. This background allows James to tailor his approach based on your needs. Having witnessed the power of support beyond friends and family, he's committed to helping you transform your life.

Therapy with James might involve exploring recurring patterns, your various life roles, and your sense of identity. He aims to help you gain deeper self-understanding, leading to positive changes in your mental and emotional well-being. James offers practical tools and resources alongside an insightful and empathetic approach.

James understands that seeking therapy is a courageous step towards growth. He provides a confidential space where you can discuss things you may not feel comfortable sharing elsewhere. Therapy can't change the past, but it can unlock a brighter future where you feel empowered and in control. James believes you hold the key to what you need, and he's committed to listening deeply to support you in finding it. Additionally, he works with various insurances, including AXA & WPA.

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Dr Sophia Chambers

Sophia is a friendly and passionate clinical psychologist, experienced in helping with a range of difficulties including: anxiety, stress and burnout, trauma and PTSD, depression/low mood. Alongside her private practice, Sophia works as a clinical psychologist in the NHS.

Sophia draws on principles from a range of evidence-based psychological therapies including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). This means she can be flexible and adapt sessions to suit you.

Reaching for help can be hard so Sophia strives to ensure you feel relaxed and safe. Her approach is warm, non-judgemental and down-to-earth. Sophia works collaboratively with you, to help you understand why difficulties may have arisen, and guide you to develop effective coping strategies so you can live the life you really want.

Therapy is a big investment and it is important to find someone you feel comfortable with. Sophia offers a free no-obligation phone consultation so you can learn a bit about each other and help you decide if she is the right therapist for you.

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Barbara Perini MSc, BACP (Accred.)
Psychotherapist

Barbara has an MSc in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Counselling, and is a BACP accredited member. Barbara is registered with AXA PPP, Aviva and Bupa.

Barbara offers a safe and containing space where you can explore current and past relationships, experiences and feelings. Barbara qualified in 2015 and has further trainings and experience working with PTSD, Trauma and Dissociative disorders.

In the past Barbara has worked in a prison and a rehabilitation centre for mental health and substance addiction. She has also worked for Mind in London.

Barbara works with individuals over the age of 16, in both short or long term, depending on your needs and also runs different groups focusing on emotional regulation, relationships and dreams. Appointments are offered on a weekly basis and they last for 50 minutes. An initial free phone call of up to 15 minutes is offered.

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Emma Wheatley, MBACP (Reg.)
Counsellor

Emma is a fully qualified counsellor and a registered member of the BACP. It may feel daunting to come to therapy and finding the right therapist for you might feel overwhelming. It's okay to ask questions when searching for a therapist. You may feel confused, perhaps you’re overthinking things, you may be experiencing highs and lows or you might not even know what you’re feeling and that's okay.

Counselling is a confidential and safe space in which to explore what this means to you and together try to understand things better.

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Nicole Uprichard
Integrative Counsellor and Coach

Nicole Uprichard is an experienced integrative therapist offering counselling and coaching. She has worked as a one-to-one therapist in a wide range of settings including hospitals, the charity sector and private practice.

Nicole’s integrative approach draws on a wide range of therapeutic models to tailor her compassionate, empathic and non-judgemental approach to the unique needs and goals of each individual. These include Person-centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, coaching, Somatic Trauma Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Gestalt Therapy.

Nicole offers both counselling and coaching, either separately or blended together holistically. She supports each person in exploring past and present experiences and emotions, empowering them to make changes, improve emotional regulation, and work towards personal growth. She specialises in working with the many manifestations of stress and psychological trauma.

Nicole has trained to support parents who have experienced the profoundly difficult challenges of baby loss and birth trauma, providing them with a safe and confidential therapeutic space.

The focus of Nicole’s coaching is forward-looking and action-oriented. She works with individuals to identify and work towards specific personal or professional goals whilst they enhance their skills and overcome obstacles.

As well as working in person, on the telephone or online, Nicole offers walk and talk therapy, where sessions take place outdoors.

Nicole is a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). She abides by their code of conduct and ethical practice.

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Katherine Gentry Coyne, MBACP (Reg.)
Counsellor

Katherine is a qualified Therapeutic Counsellor and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Katherine has a background working in schools for 7 years supporting children and young people with social, emotional and behavioural needs and their families. She has furthered her experience with 2 years of specialising in bereavement for adults and children.

Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, trauma, relationships, or just finding it difficult to just get through the day, especially with increasing pressures in our modern world, Katherine offers a person-centred approach to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space. She believes that everyone is unique and deserves to be heard. You can make positive changes to your life when you are listened to and feel valued.

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Kim Zepler
Counsellor

Kim Zepler has a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling from Redlands College here in Dorset. She qualified in 2020. Kim works in a person-centred way which is an approach that focuses very much on the client, and the therapeutic relationship. Kim offers a safe space to explore the self and feelings in a non-judgemental confidential way.

Kim works with adults and charges £45 per session (50 minutes).

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Mattia Venuti, M.Ost

Mattia, a 2020 graduate of the University College of Osteopathy and co-founder of Balanced Motion Clinic, is renowned for his holistic approach to health, blending his expertise in osteopathy with skills in sports massage and acupuncture. His passion for an active lifestyle, including boxing, gym workouts, spearfishing, and practices like sauna and ice baths, deeply informs his practice.

In his career, Mattia has developed a keen interest in treating a diverse range of conditions, extending his expertise to areas such as chronic back pain, sports injuries, postural problems, and stress-related conditions. His approach is comprehensive, considering every aspect of a patient’s lifestyle and well-being.

Mattia’s time in South America, where he engaged in volunteering and cultural immersion, has greatly enhanced his empathy and patient care. As a senior musculoskeletal practitioner in the NHS, he ensures his treatments are always at the forefront of current research, offering evidence-based and effective care.

Mattia is dedicated to guiding his patients on their journey to better health with personalized, holistic care. His commitment to staying updated with the latest advancements in musculoskeletal care ensures that his patients receive the most effective treatments tailored to their unique needs.

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Rianne Lutchmaya, M.Ost

Rianne, a masters in osteopathy graduate from the University College of Osteopathy, co-founded Balanced Motion Clinic following a dynamic career as a personal trainer and gym coach in the fitness industry.

Her transition into osteopathy was fuelled by her deep understanding of the human body and the vital importance of movement for maintaining health.

Her professional focus spans a variety of areas, including the treatment of headaches, sports-related injuries, pain management during pregnancy, care for the elderly, and support for patients with chronic pain. Rianne’s approach in osteopathy is enriched by her extensive background in physical fitness, allowing her to address a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal issues with expertise and empathy.

Rianne is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care. She leverages her comprehensive knowledge and experience to tailor treatments to each patient’s unique needs. Her holistic approach ensures that every aspect of a patient’s lifestyle is considered, guiding them on their path to recovery and enhanced well-being.

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Anthony O`Toole, MBACP (Accred.), BA (hons.)
Psychotherapist & Counsellor

Anthony is an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and an accredited member of the BACP. He provides a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore anything you wish, comfortable in the knowledge that what you share will be treated in the greatest confidence.

Anthony believes we all have the power to heal and grow, but so often our experiences, circumstances, or just modern life mean we get stuck. Counselling could help you find a way past this, to unravel the complicated thought patterns and bring balance to the things that threaten to overwhelm you.

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Julie Barrett
NLP and Hypnotherapy Practictioner

Julie Barrett is a person-centred integrative NLP & Hypnotherapy Practitioner. Julie believes that everyone has the right to be happy and follow their dreams with confidence and with a healthy mindset. Sometimes it feels like we are stuck (with feelings of stress, anxiety, procrastination, overwhelmed, expectations, social media, unwanted habits) and don’t know which way to turn.

Hypnotherapy with NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) are only two of the integrated approaches used to make rapid, real, and lasting changes to lives of people like you. The aim is for you to become the author of your own story and gain back
control of your life.

During a session, clients are helped to resolve issues, limitations and unwanted habits which ultimately leaves you feeling free and able to achieve your dreams.

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Katie Timoszenko

Katie Timoszenko is a fully trained and insured Naturawhite Specialist offering Laser teeth whitening.

This is a self administered process using Naturawhite's EU non-peroxide whitening gels, approved and regulated by EU and UK laws. The gels are combined with a diamond laser lamp (the best in the industry).

Instant and incredible results in just 45mins.

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Carol Bendinelli, MBACP (Reg.)
Counsellor

Carol is a fully qualified counsellor, and a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). She has trained as a Humanistic Integrative Counsellor which means she can offer a tailored approach to meet your individual needs, drawing on her knowledge of several counselling approaches including; Person-Centred, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Carol also uses tools and techniques from Mindfulness and creative approaches.

There are times for everyone when our normal ways of coping don’t seem enough.

Carol offers a confidential, warm, and non-judgemental space where you will feel heard, valued, and accepted for who you are. You don’t have to feel alone when life feels challenging or overwhelming. It takes courage to seek support, and Carol works collaboratively at your pace, to help you develop positive changes in your life. She is passionate about working with people to empower them to reach their personal goals, express their individuality and enjoy life.

Carol can help you work toward healing growth if you are struggling with;

anxiety, depression, low mood, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, guilt and shame, life transitions, self-esteem, meaning and purpose, pain/illness, neuro-diversity, isolation / loneliness, baby-loss, fertility issues, feeling stuck due to past events, not flourishing.


Before training as a therapist, Carol worked within the voluntary sector, social services and education with vulnerable adults and children.

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Camilla Sant
Psychotherapeutic Counsellor

Camilla is a qualified integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor drawing on a number of different modalities in her work to suit the needs of each individual client. She is predominantly trained in Person Centred, Gestalt and Psychodynamic theories, but also uses elements of Transactional Analysis, CBT and Transpersonal Psychology. Camilla is also a trauma-informed therapist, meaning she has had specific training in the assessment and processing of trauma related issues.

Camilla provides a warm and reflective space in which individuals can choose to explore their issues in a non-judgemental environment. Whether you wish to look at the impact of your early years on your life now, address current issues of feeling ‘stuck’ in a more solution-focused way, or anything else; Camilla will help guide you to a greater level of self-awareness and understanding, helping you to uncover answers to the “Why do I…?” questions that can seem so confusing.

Camilla is a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and abides by their ethical framework (details of which can be found at www.bacp.co.uk).

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Julie Fisher-Thomas, BSc (hons.), BACP (reg.)
Counsellor

Julie has experience in working with relationship difficulties, personal development which include working to enhance self-esteem, self-care, motivation, and boundaries. She has also worked with addiction, including sexual addiction as well as drug and alcohol problems.
She is an experienced Samaritan, and this role has enabled Julie to help people who are suicidal. However, her reason for counselling is to be more than a sticking plaster for immediate problems, but to see people grow and flourish.

Julie has experience working in a residential rehab where the focus is on helping people with addiction to develop the tools to maintain sobriety and work through their complex past experiences and feelings. Julie has run various workshops there, including The Drama Triangle, Co-Dependency, and therapeutic art.

Julie provides a safe and confidential space for and starts working using a Person-Centred approach. But adapts and uses the best style depending on your needs. She can incorporate gestalt techniques, cognitive behaviour therapy, all of these can include therapeutic use of art and music.

Julie works in the Wareham office, and charges £45 per session (50 mins)

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Nikila Davis
Counsellor

Nikila is a person-centred counsellor who wholeheartedly believes in the restorative and transformative power of counselling. Nikila has experienced this first hand and this led her to train as a counsellor herself.

Nikila offers a place of safety, where shame, pain, confusion, overwhelm, anxiety, and all kinds of emotional distress can be shared and explored without judgement.

Nikila works with adults and charges £45 per 50-minute session. She offers face-to-face counselling at The Dorset Practice, or online via Zoom.

“We think we listen, but very rarely do we listen with real understanding, true empathy. Yet listening of this kind is one of the most potent forces of change that I know” Carl Rogers.

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Lucy Cruickshank
Counsellor

Lucy holds an Advanced Diploma in integrative counselling which enables her to tailor sessions to meet your needs and help you achieve your goals. She is also able to work creatively and holds a level 2 certificate in Person Centred Creative Arts and is a certified Mindfulness Practitioner. She recently completed her level 5 training in CBT with Redlands College and is currently awaiting her final exam to formally qualify. She is also a registered member of the BACP.

Lucy has experience working in a variety of healthcare settings as both a counsellor and a health and wellbeing coach including hospices supporting bereaved relatives and patients affected by life-limiting illness, GP surgeries and a cancer charity.

Lucy can help with a wide range of difficulties and specialises in supporting people who are bereaved or have experienced the loss of something important to them such as a job or relationship. She also has an interest in helping people experiencing anxiety and depression and in personal therapy for people interested in personal growth and exploration.

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Marisa Whitty
Counsellor

Marisa Whitty trained to teach MBCT-L in 2021 with the Oxford Mindfulness Foundation.

Prior to that she was teaching mindfulness in schools around the Bournemouth and Poole area since training with the Mindfulness in School Project in 2018. Marisa is a certified Hypnotherapist practitioner, Yoga Nidra and Qoya teacher.

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Nathelie Tudberry
Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist

Prior to being a full-time hypnotherapist, Nathelie worked as a solicitor in the City and later ran a headhunting/coaching boutique working with many top law firms. This in itself, was an education in human nature and behaviour as all clients had to cope with relentless high-pressure.

Nathelie now works full-time as an accredited cognitive behavioural hypnotherapist, running a clinic in Poole Town, and also offers treatment remotely. Her specialisation is anxiety and panic disorders. She developed this interest whilst coaching couples on relationship trauma, conflict and high-coercive control which led her to work as a helpline volunteer for a national anxiety charity. Nathelie’s therapeutic approach is, first, to work with hypnosis, channelling the extraordinary power of the imagination. Hypno-CBT is swift, effective and fun. More importantly, research shows it reliably produces successful outcomes.

Nathelie is not limited to cognitive and behavioural approaches, often adopting an integrative approach, incorporating Gestalt, ACT, REBT and breathwork tools. Nathelie is qualified in third wave Hypno-CBT, which is evolving the approach towards mindfulness and acceptance. She has practiced mindfulness and Eastern philosophy for over 20 years.

Nathelie’s fee is £85 per session, with some concessionary fees available upon request.

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Gillian Brake, MA, Adv Dip, MBACP
Counsellor

Gillian is an experienced qualified counsellor who has both knowledge and an understanding of working in a trauma-informed way. She has an MA in counselling and psychotherapy and is an integrative counsellor who can draw upon different theories and approaches.

Gillian believes each person is unique so she will tailor her practice to suit your needs. In this way, she will work alongside you. She is particularly passionate about enabling and supporting people to make changes and empower their choices.

At times life can be full of decisions and thoughts that can impact our daily functioning. Finding a confidential space outside of our family and friends can help us become clearer in our thinking. Taking that first step to feeling better requires courage and Gillian believes focusing on yourself can help you focus on what is important to you. She offers a free 15 minute introductory phone call.

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Tammie Jones, MBACP (Reg)
CYP Counsellor

Tammie works with young people from the age of 8 years old, as well as adults.. Tammie is an integrative and trauma-focused counsellor. Her primary training is person-centred, however she adopts a humanistic integrative approach that prioritises your needs. When working with children and young people, Tammie adopts a more creative approach, prioritising active listening to understand the needs of the child or young person.

Tammie has experience working with trauma and uses the three-phase model to work through trauma.

Tammie charges £50 per 50-minute session.

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Our Placement Counsellors

Our placement counsellors are dedicated and compassionate trainees currently on placement, poised to make a meaningful impact in the field of mental health and well-being. Trainees are passionately committed to honing their counselling skills and gaining practical experience to contribute positively to the lives of those seeking support. Their commitment to fostering a safe and non-judgmental space for clients reflects a genuine desire to facilitate healing and growth.

Undergoing rigorous training, they bring a fresh perspective and an eagerness to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. They are enthusiastic about embracing diverse perspectives and tailoring their approach to individual needs, recognizing the importance of cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, and respect in the counselling process.

Throughout their placement, they are actively engaged in continuous learning, seeking supervision and guidance to refine their skills and enhance their effectiveness as a counsellor. Their dedication to maintaining ethical standards, confidentiality, and a client-centred focus underscores their commitment to providing quality care.

If you feel the need for support but are uncertain what to do next, or which is the right help for you, then call us.

We will be happy to outline what is involved, what to expect and most importantly how to get started.

Call us on 01202 022100 and one of our friendly team will be happy to chat with you and answer your questions with the aim of finding you the right therapist or counsellor. You don’t need a GP referral if you’re looking for a private therapist or counsellor.

We can help with:

Anger Management

Anger is a normal human emotion and an appropriate response in certain situations.

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Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal human emotion and an appropriate response to certain situations.

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Bereavement And Loss

The pain of loss can feel overwhelming. Coming to terms with loss is a process that takes time and adjustment before you reach a point of acceptance.

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Children & Young Persons

When children and young persons struggle, they may find it difficult to know who to turn to, and how to manage their emotions and problems.

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Depression

Counselling serves as a vital resource in addressing and managing depression which can profoundly impact daily functioning, relationships and overall quality of life.

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Eating Disorders

An eating disorder is when you have an unhealthy attitude towards food which can take over your life.

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EMDR

EMDR or Eye movement desensitisation and reprocess is a powerful scientifically proven psychotherapy to help people recover from traumatic events in their lives which may be having a negative impact on their mental health.

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LGBTQ+

Feeling confused about your sexuality, your gender, and feeling that you don't fit in can have lasting effects.

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Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy

MBCT-L Mindfulness Course (8 weeks)

Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy for Life is an 8-week course for all ages and stages of people wanting to live life with more presence and develop meaningful skills to navigate the ups and downs.

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Osteopathy & Sports Massage

Osteopathy and sports massage are both valuable modalities in the realm of physical therapy and sports medicine, each offering unique approaches to enhancing athletic performance, preventing injuries and promoting overall well-being.

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Realationships

Our brains are hardwired to form intimate attachment bonds with others.

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Single Session Therapy (SST)

Single Session Therapy (SST) is a highly efficient method of delivering therapeutic support in a single session, while recognizing that additional sessions may be necessary.

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Trauma & Abuse

Trauma can be seen as a psychological emotional response to an event or an experience that is deeply distressing or that overwhelms the individual's ability to process it.

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