Olivia Blythe

My name is Ollie and I am a qualified and experienced BACP registered counsellor.

As an integrative therapist, I draw on several different therapeutic approaches to best address individual need. No one approach is right for every client, and I work in a flexible and collaborative way, working to build a strong therapeutic relationship. Through experiencing a warm, non-judgmental, empathic relationship, clients feel heard and understood, which can enable self awareness and growth. 

All my work is underpinned by the principles of autonomy, respect and embracing individuality.

I have experience counselling both adults and young people (8+) in a variety of settings, including universities, secondary schools, SEND schools, charitable organisations, and within a specialist service for young people with Autism and Mental Health Needs.

I hold an Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling (accredited by the BACP) 

I have undergone extensive further training as follows:

• Level 5 course in Counselling Children and Young People (accredited by OCN London)

• Level 1 Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (attachment focused therapy for children who have experienced developmental trauma)

• Best practice when supporting autistic clients

• ADHD in the Therapy Room

• Neurodiversity in girls

• Creative communication with children and young people (Beacon House)

• Domestic abuse awareness

• Online safety

• Suicide and self-harm risk assessment 

• Child protection in Secondary schools

• Working with complex trauma

• Foundation in Drawing and Talking Therapy

I hold a fully enhanced DBS. I have professional indemnity insurance and am registered with the ICO, adhering to GDPR regulations. 

As a member of the BACP, I adhere to the Ethical Framework. 

I also attend regular Supervision sessions with an experienced supervisor which ensures I am always working safely and ethically, and enables me to consider alternative perspectives.

I have a lovely light, peaceful therapy room conveniently situated on Lymington High Street, with its own reception area and toilet facilities. I primarily offer face-to-face sessions but can offer online sessions if required.

I support adults to explore and understand various issues that may be impacting on them, including depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, life changes, relationships, families, bereavement, negative thoughts, self-harm, suicidal thinking, attachment, identity, and parenting a neurodiverse child.

I support children with all of the above but with added awareness of the pressures and challenges facing young people as they navigate school and adolescence, which may include academic stress, friendship/relationships, depression, self-esteem, OCD, bullying, peer pressure, gender issues, self-harm and suicidal ideation.

I have a wide range of resources, games, art materials etc. to support young people who may need a more play based or creative approach.

I provide an initial consultation meeting with the parent attending, so that all parties are clear about how confidentiality, data protection and safeguarding requirements work when a young person accesses counselling.

Through my experience of working with many neurodiverse adults and children, I have further developed my understanding of issues which may impact this client group, including negative self-belief, rigid thinking, sensory needs, bullying, depression, low mood and anxiety, which may be caused by social communication and situations. I can support with the challenges which can result from the constant drain of masking to get by and fit in with neurotypical society. 

I provide a safe, open space for clients to explore their feelings and identify their needs, offering a offering a neutral space without agenda or judgement.

I work collaboratively to set goals and identify areas of need, adapting my approach to suit the individual.

I offer a free initial 15 minute telephone consultation so that you can decide whether I am the right therapist for you and I can answer any questions you may have.