Johanna Laws

Not taking on any clients for the foreseeable future 

I endeavour to provide a warm and therapeutic safe space where we can work together to explore feelings around any issues - current or past - as well as towards changes you may want for the future.

The life we have led, experienced or been subjected to, starting in our mothers’ wombs, has shaped us into who we are today.People in our past made choices for us; we learned how to be and what to do in order to be a 'good' girl or boy, to fit in and to please others.

If we can increase our self-awareness and understand where our thoughts, feelings and behaviour today come from, we can get to a point where we can make our own, adult choices about how to be, what to think and how to behave…more suited to who we are today.

I believe that, with a little help, we can all achieve that.

Asking for help can be difficult, but I hope you will quickly feel that I am easy to talk to.  I have no agenda and pass no judgement but welcome you, just as you are.

As a Humanistic Integrative Counsellor, I draw on several theoretical models of counselling psychology to facilitate your personal exploration. We are all unique and deserve unique treatment. My integrative training enables me to adapt my approach to suit you and your unique needs.

I agree with Irvin D. Yalom who said: 

"I believe that a different therapy must be constructed for each patient because each has a unique story".

I offer face-to-face Counselling from my  office in the centre of Eastbourne, but am also happy to provide online, telephone or walking sessions.

I have experience of working with adults over 18.

In addition to my professional qualification, I have received bereavement training at St Wilfrid's Hospice in Eastbourne, where I'm proud to say, I volunteered for three years. As well as working for myself, I work and volunteer for a low cost counselling service in Hastings and for a charity in Eastbourne supporting adult survivors of sexual abuse in childhood.

I make sure to keep myself updated with relevant and certified CPD workshops, the most recent ones being:

*Online & Telephone Counselling

*Time Limited Counselling for Complex Trauma

*Trauma and Recovery

*Severe and complex Trauma

* Mindfulness

In accordance with ethical practice, I adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework. I also hold professional liability insurance and receive regular counselling supervision.

I would suggest an initial - free - phone consultation where the two of us can discuss your needs, wishes and/or expectations. 

Then, in our first actual session, we go through a safe-keeping contract - which often also works as a good icebreaker - determining a goal and time-frame, among other things, for our work together.

I believe that part of the healing in counselling, comes from a good therapeutic relationship, i.e. it is of utmost importance that we connect and that you feel safe with me. Therefore, let's have a chat on the phone first to see if we might be a good match to work together.

I charge £50 per session, but offer concessions to students and those on low income and/or benefits.