Dawn Cook

I work in the mornings Mon - Fri, but also Fri afternoons.

The modalities I am trained in are person centred, cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic. Normally I work integratively using bits of all 3 as and when I feel they are most useful to clients. 

I am happy to work on a short or long term basis and to adapt the regularity and timings of the sessions to suit flexible working hours and finances. 

Therapy can take place by phone, video-conference or by 'walking and talking'. 

Walk and talk therapy

The therapeutic work takes place outside whilst walking changing the dynamic between you and the therapist.

For some, this is a less formal approach and it can feel less intense being outdoors and not facing the therapist, allowing you to talk more freely. It is also a way of combining nature and exercise alongside the therapy. Doing physical exercise can release endorphins that are good for the body, help with emotional regulation and help relieve tension. Walk and talk therapy can therefore be positive for both mind and body.

Research shows walk and talk therapy can be helpful when  discussing difficult emotions, behaviours or issues and can help with deeper ways of thinking. A department of health report (2011) showed “Being active promotes mental health and well-being. It improves self-perception and self-esteem, mood and sleep quality and it reduces stress, anxiety and fatigue”.

This way of therapy can be ideal for those with young children that they can also push along in a pram or for those with a dog, as it would be fine to bring them along too.

The first session would take place by phone or video-conference to discuss through how it would work and any concerns you have. 

Phone and Video-conference

Practical considerations need to be considered e.g. a quiet place with no distractions, good internet connection or phone signal etc. 

Are you struggling to cope with life, worrying about an issue or feel that some area of your life could be improved? Discussing this with someone impartial and having time to talk it through may be helpful. 

Individual sessions are £55 for 50 mins via video-conference or phone and £60 for 50 mins 'walk and talk', Couples sessions are 1 hour long and are £65 via video-conference. Half hour individual sessions are available for £40 via video-conference or £45 for 'walk and talk'. 

Whether by phone, video-conference or 'walk and talk' therapy, the first session would begin with discussing how we could work together. (Please note the first session if you would like 'walk and talk' would take place via phone or video-conference). 

The main part of the session would be you telling me why you have decided to visit a counsellor and how you are hoping I might be able to help you. 

At the end of the session, I will let you know how I might be able to help, ask if there are any questions you might have and then arrange any future sessions. 

Individual sessions start from £45 for half an hour or £60 for 50 mins. Couples sessions are 1 hour long and start at £70 via video-conference.