Bernadette Gilder

Hello there, thanks for reaching out.  I can offer face to face or virtual therapy Monday to Friday.  My hours vary.

Please note that I do not look after children but I am happy to see teens, young adults and adults.

Hello there and welcome.  I recognise that reaching out to enquire about therapy is difficult for some people so if that is you, please do come in and meet me for a first appointment.  You will find me calm, accepting and kind - everyone is equal and welcome in my eyes.  Once we spend that first session together, you can decide if my approach suits you.  There is no obligation to come again if you feel uncertain or do not feel ready.  I am a fairly informal person which I am told is comforting.

I trained as an integrative therapist which means I can find a way to help most people, because I will tailor my approach to suit you personally.  I have a lot of tools in my kit!

https://www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/types-of-therapy/integrative-counselling/

This means we can combine a number of ways of working to help you with whatever it is you are going through.

I am also a very experienced Physiotherapist specialising in MSK Physiotherapy (any problems with muscles, joints, nerves, tendons etc.  Pain and/or weakness anywhere in the body).  I also specialise in Women's Health Physiotherapy (pain/problems around childbirth, recovering afterwards, issues with bladder and bowel and pelvic pain).  I am also an acupuncturist.

My skill mix can therefore be particularly helpful for those with health concerns or those living with pain (and the psychological stress this causes).  We can meet for Psychotherapy alone or in combination with Physiotherapy as needed (pricing varies).

I am more than comfortable working with anyone who is suffering mentally, from any background, lifestyle or preference.  I am non-judgemental.

The basis of good therapy must be person centred, so I want to hear your stories and learn what is important to you.  I also believe strongly that we can each learn to look after our unique brain and use it well, despite any struggles we are living with.  I am therefore always keen to educate people about how our brains work and how we can work with them to find mental peace.

Each Counselling 'hour' is actually 50 minutes; this is standard across our profession.  It allows me to take some anonymous notes about our discussion afterwards and to allow time for the change over of clients without undue stress.

I do not offer a free first session, nor do I discount my time.

I am available Monday to Friday, either in person at my Chingford office, virtually or by telephone.

When we meet, I will let you know about the terms and conditions, which will only take around 5 minutes (and are standard across all who abide by the BACP standards).  Then I am free to listen to your concerns.

If, at the end of our session you already know how you feel, just let me know.  I can rebook you, let you get back to me or say goodbye and wish you well.

I do require 48 hours notice if you cannot attend an appointment and I will expect to be paid if you fail to arrive or do not let me know in time.