David Thomas

I believe counselling offers a safe and empathetic space to work through specific life issues, or an opportunity for self-exploration, discovery and growth.  I work with clients facing a wide range of life and mental health challenges which includes anxiety, depression, trauma, complex trauma, and issues affecting the sense of self and identity.   I have particular experience of the challenges of bereavement, caring for loved ones, and terminal illness.  Additionally I have training and experience of working with neurodiversity.  I have a previous extensive background in education,  much of which focussed on student and family welfare, special and additional educational needs, and safeguarding. As a counsellor I have wide experience of working with children and young adults.

The most important part of therapy is the relationship between client and counsellor. Therapy can be a challenging, and at times difficult process and the strength of a trusting and open relationship is key to the client's progress. I work as an integrative therapist incorporating a range of different practices which include elements of person centred, Gestalt, transactional analysis, CBT, and solution focused therapy. However, what is most important is that my approach is sensitive to each individual client and what works best for them to meet their needs and goals.

I prefer to work face-to-face with clients. However, I can also offer on-line, or blended therapy. My practice is based in rural East Kent and this offers the additional opportunity for walk-and-talk therapy (for which I am trained and insured). I have experience of working with all adult age groups and also with children 10 years and older. I also offer open-ended, or limited session therapy based on the client's goals and preferences.

I hold a CPCAB Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and also a BACP Certificate of Proficiency. I have additional training in working with ADHD and Autism, and also working with Complex trauma. I am also keen to keep up-to-date with developments in the therapeutic field, in particular the latest developments in neuroscience, and am trained in the therapeutic application of poly-vagal theory.

The first session with a new counsellor can be daunting and I aim to it make it both welcoming and safe to quickly build the therapeutic relationship. It is important that we both feel comfortable working with each other.   The first session will involve information gathering so that I can best get to know the client, their needs and goals, and to negotiate a way of working together.  Information on my contract would be provided by post or e-mail prior to the first session, and the specifics of this can be discussed further in that session.