Sophie Carpenter
Registered Member MBACP
Contact information
- Phone number
- 07951 659 162
Features
- Flexible hours available
- Available for home visits
- Concessionary rates
Availability
Hello. My working hours are as follows:
Heathfield Rooms - Mondays 9.30-7.30
Home visits - Flexible
Online and telephone - Flexible
About me and my therapy practice
Hello, my name is Sophie and I am a person-centred counsellor specialising in working with people with dementia and their families. A diagnosis of dementia causes distress and uncertainty to the person with dementia as well as their loved ones. It can feel as though there is little hope and whilst the medical side is being addressed a person's emotional and mental health can be forgotten when that is needed more than ever. Person-centred counselling can be a valuable tool for both people with dementia and their families. By fostering a safe space and bringing empathy and understanding I can assist the client to express their emotions, share life stories and find meaning in their present experiences. For families, counselling provides a safe space to talk and be heard, this can strengthen bonds and increase resilience. I pride myself in holding a safe space with each individual client, whether it is a home visit or within my comfortable counselling room
I am based near Heathfield and cover Hailsham, Polegate, Horam, Eastbourne, Uckfield and Mayfield
Practice description
As a person-centered counsellor working with people with dementia, my approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a commitment to seeing the individual behind the diagnosis.
I listen to understand their experiences, fears, and emotions. If the communication becomes more difficult, I focus on the underlying feelings rather than the accuracy of facts. I focus on listening, observing the person's verbal and non-verbal cues, and validating their emotions without correcting or challenging them. I may use objects, photographs, or sensory items to help guide the conversation. I focus on the person's strengths, preferences, and unique life history, rather than on the limitations of dementia. I integrate their values, interests, and past experiences into our sessions. I encourage decision-making , fostering a sense of autonomy. This might mean making choices about the focus of our sessions or participating in activities they enjoy. I validate their emotions and experiences, even if they are not fully aligned with reality. Respecting the client's perception maintains dignity and supports the therapeutic process. As a person-centered counsellor for those whose loved ones have dementia, I provide a compassionate and validating space where clients can openly express grief, stress, and frustration. Additionally, I support navigating family dynamics, promoting healthy communication, and fostering collaboration. My goal is to empower clients to cope with caregiving's emotional demands while preserving their well-being and relationship with their loved one.
My first session
In the first counselling session with a client living with dementia, my priority is to create a welcoming and calm environment. I start by introducing myself in a clear and friendly manner, explaining what counselling is and reassuring them about confidentiality in simple terms. I take time to build rapport, often using gentle conversation about familiar topics or shared interests to make them feel comfortable. If they can, I invite them to share what brings them to counselling, how they are feeling, and any challenges they are experiencing. In this session, I also assess their comfort level, preferred communication style, and how best to support them. My goal is to make the client feel safe, valued, and respected while gathering information to tailor future sessions to their needs and abilities.
In the first counselling session with a family member of someone living with dementia, I'll focus on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where they feel heard and understood. I'll listen actively and encourage them to express their emotions, concerns, and struggles. The session will help them explore feelings of grief, frustration, and guilt while providing validation. Through empathetic listening, I'll reflect their thoughts and feelings, helping them gain clarity and self-awareness. Ultimately, I'll support them in discovering personal strengths and coping strategies, while also giving information regarding future sessions to address ongoing challenges.
What I can help with
Abuse, Anxiety, Bereavement, Depression, Disability, Health related issues, Loss, Mood disorder, OCD, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Self-harm, Trauma
Types of therapy
Existential, Family therapy, Gestalt, Humanistic, Integrative, Person centred
Clients I work with
Adults, Families
How I deliver therapy
Home visits, Long term sessions, Long-term face-to-face work, Online therapy, Short term sessions, Short-term face-to-face work, Telephone therapy, Text therapy, Time-limited
Languages spoken
English