Ann Shaheed

***I am on an extended break between 2nd November 2024 to 24th November2024 and therefore I will be unavailable for appointments***

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Has something happened that has left you feeling like you're struggling to cope? 

Or do you have a feeling that something ‘isn’t right’ without knowing what that something is?

Maybe you're fed up with being told by everyone that you're their 'rock'?  Of feeling like everyone relies on you but no-one thinks about what you may need?

Do you feel that when you do speak up you're told 'don't be silly'?

I'm guessing that you might believe that you are silly or stupid. Maybe you feel resentful or frustrated too.

How would it feel to have a space where you can say exactly what you think or feel without feeling judged?

Having been in the client's chair myself I know how incredibly liberating that can be. 

It certainly gave me the confidence to pay more attention to myself and not just to others, and as a consequence feel less scared or silly about speaking up.

I want to help you gain that confidence too.

Over time suppressing or ‘bottling up’ feelings can lead to pain and distress. This not only affects you but can have an impact on your relationship with others. 

Many clients have told me that through counselling they've been able to gain a greater understanding and trust in their own abilities and choices. 

I understand that it can be daunting to seek help especially if you find it difficult to share your feelings. Maybe you’re used to putting on a ‘brave face’ and feel that opening up means that you will be judged or a burden to others.

'Showing up'  and taking that first step can be one of the hardest things to do however I want to let you know that you don't have to struggle on alone anymore.

If you're ready to take that all important first step then you can email me at annshaheedcounselling@gmail.com to book an initial session.

I may not always be able to respond immediately but will endeavour to respond within 24 hours wherever possible. 

I look forward to hearing from you.

Training, Qualifications and Experience.

I have worked as a qualified Counsellor since 2017.  As part of my training I worked in different settings such as a secondary school, at a GP Practice and have also worked as a Bereavement Support Worker for the charity CRUSE.

I have 'walked' with many different clients through difficult times.

I currently provide counselling for a mental health charity as well as working in private practice.

Registered Member British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Level 4 - Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling

Level 3 - Counselling Studies

Level 2 - Certificate in Counselling Skills

Certificate in Awareness in Bereavement Care (CRUSE)

Certificate in Counselling People with MS (MS-UK)

I hold a current enhanced DBS Certificate.

Member Carolyn Spring Trauma Recovery Community.

Our first session together will take the form of an assessment session.

I will take some information from you to build up a picture of what your life looks like right now. It's also a chance to explore what your expectations of counselling are and what you would like to gain from it.

The first session is an opportunity to see whether we both feel comfortable working together and to give you a chance to ask any questions.

If after the first session you feel like you'd like to continue we can book a further session. Normally this will be weekly, at least to start with, and on the same day each week, although I can sometimes offer some flexibility with this.

I offer both short and long term therapy and we will review our work together regularly to make sure that your needs are being met and to decide whether you wish to continue.

It is important that whatever you decide feels right for you.