Simon Buckland

Do you ever think that your life could be so much happier or more satisfying than it is? Counselling could be the first step towards making it so. 

Many of us grow up with negative influences around us: indifference, criticism, insecurity, rejection, even hostility and aggression. As we grow up we find ourselves absorbing these energies, and in adult life they show up as low self-esteem, as anxiety, as outbursts of rage or as depression. They interfere with our work, with our relationships and with our ability to enjoy and make the most of our own lives.

My aim is to work with you to get the negative voices and feelings under control, to create distance from them and allow your more positive and creative side to come forward. I’m kind, patient, perceptive and supportive, and I’ll never judge or criticise you. Whatever difficult places we might go to in our work together, you can be sure that I’ve been there before in my own long therapy journey and training. That makes me a safe and trustworthy guide.

I'm an accredited member of BACP, with long experience of personal development and psychotherapy both as a practitioner and as a participant. I trained at the Psychosynthesis Trust in person-centred and transpersonal counselling from 2012 to 2015, and at Relate in systemic and couples therapy in 2016-7.  So I'm able to take an in-depth 180-degree view of your situation - not only your family of origin, but also your current social , relationship and work circumstances. To see the big picture as well as the important details.

My own personal journey towards psychological well-being has taken me through many of the therapies I now practice. So I know very well from my own experience how daunting it can sometimes feel to choose to look at the darker and more difficult aspect of one's life.  I never underestimate the courage this takes, and I'm constantly moved and pleasantly surprised by the huge benefits it can bring. 

I provide a space where you can be seen and heard exactly as you are. You can share and give voice to feelings and thoughts which you could never express even to your nearest and dearest – knowing that it all stays in the room and is totally confidential. Whatever you bring to our sessions, it will be accepted and welcomed as a part of who you are.

Together we’ll explore the patterns of the things you do or say that you wish you didn’t, and the feelings and thoughts you wish you didn’t have. We’ll look at what triggers them, what makes them better or worse, and what the origins might be. You’ll learn bit by bit to be a wise and compassionate friend to yourself – to be your own counsellor in effect. That way you’ll gradually become able to support and guide yourself into a life which reflects the best of who you are. 

I usually start with an initial session to see if counselling is right for you at this moment. Alternatively, you can call me or text me on 07557 508 988 for a free phone discussion of your needs.

We can agree then If you decide to continue, we’ll contract for a further five sessions, after which we'll review and take stock before continuing if that's what's you want.

I have a quiet and private consulting-room in my house in central Lewes, a short walk from the station and from several car parks. Or if you prefer, I can see you online using Zoom, Skype, FaceTime or WhatsApp.