Helen Calderbank

I have limited availability in the weekday evenings. I can offer spaces on Friday's.

“Let go of who you think you’re supposed to be; embrace who you are.” Brene Brown.

I am a qualified, experienced Therapeutic Integrative Counsellor which means I use the main theoretical approaches (Person Centred, Psychodynamic and CBT) to meet your individual needs, however it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship which is the backbone of our work together. I can offer either short term, solution-based work or more open-ended, long-term therapy, depending on what you need. I am led by you, so the focus of our work is always on what you bring.

Life isn’t always easy and some things can feel so overwhelming, painful and difficult. Is something preventing you from leading the meaningful and contented life we all strive for? It could be something from your past that is having an effect on how you feel today. Perhaps there is something going on right now that needs airing, exploring and working through. Sometimes the future can be feel scary, bleak or even pointless. It could be that you just don’t feel quite…right. Having a safe, non-judgemental space to be open, honest and true can help make the process feel less like a spaghetti junction in our minds.

I believe all of us are doing our best to navigate this complex world of hustle and bustle, with our own personal take on things, quirks and uniqueness. We might want to change the unchangeable and can’t but can learn to live alongside it. We might be too frightened to change what we can but with support and someone believing in us, we can. Counselling can help to clear the path for acceptance, change or both, moving your life in the direction you want to go.

I offer a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings which you may not feel comfortable saying to others. I can be there with you, see and hear you. I strongly believe that you know you best, you hold your answers and your truth. I would be most privileged to be with you on your journey, to welcome and accept you as you are. If you don’t want to sit – let’s walk! Grab your walking boots and we’ll stomp, saunter or step it through. Many people find this an easier way to talk comfortably to another person. My private space is surrounded by fields, hills and views. We can also meet at coastal locations such as the seafront or canal. I am a huge believer in the therapeutic value of nature so if you feel more comfortable on the move, let's go!

I have experience in working with adults, children and young people (including CAMHS). I am forever grateful to all I’ve worked with as they have taught me so much. My employment background has mainly been with adolescents. I think they’re incredible, the teenage brain can be bewildering for the person growing one as well as those around them.

Above all, I’m a human with my own life experiences which help me to genuinely empathise with the depth of those feelings we might experience - despair, sadness, anger, shame – of course the list goes on and naturally we seek comfort, joy, love and happiness. Being human is quite a thing! I’ve been one for over 40 years and continue to be inspired by them.

“The curious paradox is just when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change”. Carl Rogers

I do not charge for our first session together which is a little like an assessment where we can decide if we are a good fit and I am the right therapist for you.