Ï`0)9 Uncategorized | London Counsellor

The person centred approach has had the greatest influence over my work. Though having trained under the integrative umbrella I do have knowledge of other theoretical philosophies which also have influence.

Carl Rogers was the founder of the person centred approach and as such believed that people will, if given the right conditions and opportunities, move toward autonomy and self direction. He concentrated on the individuals perception of self as well as the ways in which they are influenced by others.

An example of this would be the child that looks towards its parents for validation and approval. The childs self concept is developed depending on the reflections and attitudes being expressed by its parents. If positive and with love, the child will feel good but if negative and with little love, the child may develop a negative self concept.

The negative self concept can lead many adults to encounter difficulties in life and in need of seeking help. Rogers believed that the client knows best. In my work my aim is to help you to move towards your own inner resources, so that you become more trusting of your truth, more self aware and ultimately self accepting. The way that I do this is by exploring your life story with you, showing unconditional positive regard, empathy and congruence.

Other major influences to my work are John Bowlby and his attachment therory. Dream work from a transpersonal perspective. Existentialism and Gestalt therapy.

When people enter into a counselling relationship for the first time, it can feel daunting. It is a relationship that is bound by a professional and ethical framework that holds client confidentiality at its core.

Often people come expecting the counsellor to have all of the answers to their problems. My belief is that you have the answers to the problems in your life. My role is to walk alongside you in order to gain access to your world as openly and honestly as possible. By engaging in this unique relationship you can begin working towards change.

I do this by listening to you and providing a space in which to reflect. I provide consistency during your sessions, in time and venue and a continuity in my approach. I am non-judgemental, empathic and congruent. I will challenge misconceptions and ways of behaving non-defensively. My aim is to build a trusting relationship with you, which will empower you to face difficulties in your life, which in turn will help you live as true to your self as possible.

What is said during the sessions is completely confidential apart from the following situations:

1. Only in exceptional circumstances may i feel it necessary to break confidentiality. This could happen if you or another person were in serious or immediate danger. I would where possible discuss any steps with you beforehand. I would be concerned to limit the breach of confidentiality to a minimum and to ensure that you retained as much autonomy as possible.

2. My own supervision, where i discuss my work. I do not use full names or give unnecessary personal details. My supervision is bound by an agreement of confidentiality with my supervisor.

3. As part of my ongoing professional development i am periodically required to review my work. This may involve me writing about my work with clients. Where this is the case i ensure that all personal details are changed to protect confidentiality.

Fees and Cancellations.

The fee per session is £40-£50. I do operate a sliding scale to a limited number of clients, this is means tested. Fees increase annually. If you are unable to attend a session and give 48 hours notice, i will try to find an alternative time slot. If we are unable to do so, the session will need to be paid for in total. Less than 48 hours notice or missed sessions will be charged in full. On the rare occasion that i should have to cancel a session i will give as much notice as possible as well as finding an alternative time.