Helen Forbes

I have availability from mid-February.

As an integrative therapist I work with you to understand your present moment feelings within the context of your wider life experience, and am flexible in my approach to each client.   Our whole life and history walks into the therapy room with us, so whatever circumstances have led to you seeking help, you may find yourself exploring a wide variety of other experiences that have gone before to help you make sense of things.  Therapy isn't always easy or enjoyable, but whatever the cause of your present distress, it is through being in this unique relationship that ultimately leads to the growth and change that you seek.

Therapy is about understanding your reactions to what has happened to you, and not about labelling you.  You may experience grief, depression, anxiety, or trauma in response to circumstances you have found yourself in, and these are emotional reactions - symptoms - rather than diagnoses or disorders. I offer a supportive and non-judgemental space in which we can work together to understand these experiences and their individual meaning to you. I have experience of working with a range of issues including domestic and childhood abuse, parenting challenges, bereavement, divorce/separation, social anxiety and depression.

I have a special interest in neurodiversity and, whilst psychotherapy/counselling are non-diagnostic services, I can work with you to explore and understand your unique experience of the world. My aim is to create an environment where it feels safe to express your true self.

I am an experienced Integrative Counsellor, qualified at PG Diploma level, and currently undertaking an MSc in Psychotherapy & Counselling at the University of Warwick. 

Sessions take place in my private practice adjacent to my home.  There is ample off street parking.   

If you might need adjustments or accommodations in order to make the therapy accessible to you please do let me know in your initial enquiry, and if I can't meet these I will endeavour to signpost you to someone who can.  

I offer a free 30 minute initial consultation either face to face at my practice, or via Googlemeet.   During this session we will briefly explore your reasons for seeking therapy at this time, I will explain the way I work, and we will agree the terms of working together.  You are under no obligation to proceed, and I encourage people to take time to reflect for a couple of days before committing.  If I don't feel that I'm best placed to work with you I will do my best to signpost you on to another counsellor or service at this point.