Josephine Symons

I currently have availability for both remote and face to face counselling. Please contact me for more details. 

I offer appointments Monday to Friday daytimes plus evening appointments on Monday and Tuesday. 

I am an accredited psychodynamic counsellor and work with adults on an individual basis. I work face-to-face in Saffron Walden and Haverhill and can offer remote sessions nationally. In my work, I place great emphasis on the importance of the therapeutic relationship between the counsellor and the client. I believe that with a good working relationship, counselling can be a rewarding experience that can make positive changes and allow renewed enjoyment in life. 

I am experienced in both short-term and long-term therapeutic work and I adopt a client-led, trauma-informed approach. I place the clients' needs, pace and experience at the centre of the therapeutic process, always honouring their autonomy and empowering my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings.

I work with adults facing a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, and low mood. I also support people dealing with relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, and issues surrounding grief and loss. In addition, I have experience working with individuals struggling with addictions and the impacts of abuse, particularly domestic and sexual abuse. 

Psychodynamic principles underpin my practice, which considers how past experiences can shape our present thoughts, behaviours, and relationships. I work in a non-directive way, meaning I do not offer solutions or advice, but instead create a space where the client can reflect, gain insight, and find their own path forward. Throughout the work, I bring no judgements, and aim to create an open, accepting environment that fosters trust and healing.

I work both face to face and remotely via telephone or video call. If you decide to have remote counselling, you will need to have a confidential space in order to take the sessions. Face to face sessions will take place in a quiet, confidential counselling room. 

Sessions will be in the same place at the same time every week for 50 minutes until you decide you are ready to end. I am able to work to a short term model if you have specific issues you wish to target, or the work can be open-ended if this is what you feel would benefit you most. 

I am committed to working in line with the BACP's ethical guidelines, ensuring that I offer a safe, confidential, and respectful environment for all my clients. 

Upon referral, I will arrange a brief telephone call in order to discuss what you are seeking counselling for and to help us to determine whether I am able to help you or not. I will then invite you to an initial session where we can meet each other and you can decide whether I am the right counsellor for you. This will be charged at my standard rate.