Lauren Carter

Hi there, I'm Lauren,

I'm an Integrative Counsellor (MBACP) with a private practice in Kent.  I currently work at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre, supporting clients with addiction.  I offer face-to-face, individual counselling at Green Porch and Newington NHS Medical Centres in Sittingbourne.  I also offer face-to-face, private therapy in the Maidstone area (Chart Sutton). 

Whether you are dealing with a specific issue or just have that feeling something isn't right, therapy can be a powerful tool to explore your thoughts and make positive changes.  There isn't anybody that couldn't benefit from an hour a week, dedicated to them, especially at times when life feels too much to handle on our own.  Therapy is an empowering safe space to feel supported, gain clarity and navigate those tough times with guidance.

My top priority as a therapist is to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and emotions without judgement.  Being seen, believed and supported can help enormously. It can enable you to reach a place of acceptance and develop coping strategies.  I work from the heart, as I genuinely believe the relationship between client and therapist is the most important part of the therapy experience.  

My professional experience working within mental and emotional well-being spans over 16 years.  

I know starting with a new therapist can be daunting, especially if it is your first time in therapy.  My goal is to help you take those first steps towards meaningful change.  

I offer a free 30 minute phone consultation before we meet in person, where you can discuss anything with me. This may include what has bought you to therapy and what you are hoping to get from it. 

 There is no obligation to continue with sessions if you do not feel it is the right choice for you, or if I feel I am not the right person for you. 

I offer a reduced rate for our initial session and if you are committing to longer-term therapy (12+ sessions).

I am fully insured and DBS checked. 

I believe there isn’t just one therapeutic approach to help you grow and heal.   I adopt a flexible approach which is relaxed, collaborative and compassionate.  Ultimately, I am led by you.

My professionally accredited training and experience draws on techniques from different types of therapy, so I can tailor my work specifically to you.  I am trained in a number of modalities including Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, Existential, Cognitive and Relational approaches. 

My practice also draws on embodied and somatic approaches to trauma, which means I use the body as a tool for deeper healing and self-awareness. 

I use mindfulness and breathing techniques, where appropriate, to support you with being present in the moment and help transform the way you relate to and manage emotional and/or physical pain. This can be helpful for example, when working with chronic pain. 

Please take a look at my website for more information.

Our first face-to-face session is an opportunity to meet each other and see how you feel about working with me. 

 There are some standard questions I go through with you, as well as explaining about confidentiality. 

 Most of the session will be about giving you space to tell me what has bought you to therapy and us exploring together how it could help you. Any questions are welcome. 

We can also discuss any apprehension you may feel about therapy, alongside any expectations you may have.