Vanessa Benson

We may all at times feel stuck or face challenges which impinge on our daily lives, our relationships, and our sense of wellbeing. You may have long-standing issues that come from past experiences and relationships, or there may be something specific which is presently troubling you. Talking to someone outside your usual circle of friends and family in confidence can help make sense of feelings or situations that bring you anxiety or distress, enabling more appropriate ways of coping and a greater sense of vitality and inner balance.

I am a qualified integrative counsellor who can offer you a non-judgmental and inclusive space open to all cultures, backgrounds and orientations. I believe the therapeutic relationship can be key to creating meaningful change. I see our working together as a joint creative process where we explore your experiences, and help you find a better understanding of you and the personal difficulties you bring. My aim is for us to be curious together about your difficulties and your aspirations.

As an integrative counsellor, I draw on different approaches including person-centred and psychodynamic, allowing me to tailor my approach to your needs.  If it feels appropriate to both of us, I may suggest we work with art materials, as a way of by-passing difficulties with words, or simply using another language to access and express inner pictures or feelings.

I provide long and short-term therapy. In addition to my private practice, I have worked as a counsellor for an LGBTQ+ charity.

Please contact me by email or by phone to arrange an initial assessment. At this session we will discuss what you would like to gain out of counselling and give us a sense of whether we feel we can work together.