Lisa Smith

I currently have limited weekday evening and weekend availability.

I am an experienced counsellor.  I work with a wide range of issues and my particular areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, PTSD and Complex PTSD and relationship issues.

I became a counsellor due to my own experience of counselling and how it helped me to overcome difficulties in my life.  My personal history has brought about an understanding and empathy that I offer to clients in a way that is "real" and meaningful.  

The work is open-ended so there's no limit to the number of sessions available.  I conduct regular reviews to ensure needs are being met and encourage clients to be open about what they feel is and isn't working.  After all, it's your process and it's about helping you in a way that is most comfortable and effective for you personally.

I adhere to the ethical framework of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy so you can be sure you are being treated in a safe, accountable and professional way.  

If you're considering counselling then you are very likely to be experiencing difficult feelings that go beyond the usual "ups and downs" of life.  Perhaps you are anxious, depressed, bereaved, stuck, hurt, regretful, confused, angry, insecure or lack self-esteem.  Maybe you are suffering the effects of trauma, or perhaps you feel you are making choices or repeating patterns in your life that do you more harm than good.  Although these feelings and difficulties commonly arise in the counselling room, it is important they are understood and explored in a way which meets your own individual needs. 

I will work with you and support you with understanding, empathy and without judgment, to explore your situation and feelings in a way which gets you through difficult times, brings about personal growth and develops your own self-belief and clarity to bring about the changes you need and want, whether that be in you as an individual, in your relationships, work or social life.  

Although the basis of my approach is founded in person-centred counselling, I also draw on CBT therapy (working on thoughts) and other types of therapeutic work, in order to meet your particular individual needs.

You'll take things at your own pace, and can rest assured that no matter what you bring to the therapy space, it will be respectfully accepted and treated as confidential.   

If what I offer sounds like it's worth a try, you're very welcome to contact me to arrange an initial phone call, on a no obligation basis.  I'll explain how I work and answer any questions or concerns you may have. 

I wish you every success in whatever counselling journey you decide to undertake.     

Lisa

Before the counselling itself begins I'll meet with you to gain a basic understanding of your mental health background and current situation, to get an idea of what you hope to gain from counselling.  This is vital in order to ensure my skills and experience suit your needs so that we can work together effectively and safely.  

This initial session is also an opportunity for you to get a flavour of what I offer, to ask questions and express any concerns you may have so you can make an informed decision as to whether you feel I am someone you would like to work with.  

I allow 75 minutes for this session (although it doesn't always take that long).  The fee for the initial session is the same as future sessions (£36).