Nicola Perry

Hello, my name is Nicola. In my 10 years as a qualified counsellor, I have had the pleasure of building therapeutic relationships with a great number of people who have changed my life, as much as I have theirs. I began my practice by counselling children, adolescents, and adults. Soon moving to also work with couples, as well as other relationships within the family.

When initially working with individuals, I quickly began to recognise the impact of the whole family system. How we are experienced by others can be so significant to how we see ourselves.

My own life experiences have enabled me to be able to sit comfortably with others, whilst they tell their story and begin to develop a better understanding of themselves. In this space, clients realise it is possible to write new scripts. No longer being stuck in the repeated patterns, that they had previously fell into.

I recognise the importance of empathy and understanding within a safe and confidential environment. When we feel accepted and understood, change and growth are then possible.

I hold real value in the therapeutic relationship. In this safely held environment, I am hopeful that you will find the parts of yourself that have become hidden, lost, or not yet discovered. 

As a counsellor, I have attended my own therapy. This was initially to help me to understand the experience of counselling. It then became a discovery about myself. 

I am aware that contacting a counsellor can be a challenging first step. My counsellor helped me to greater understand  myself. Whether with me or another counsellor, I hope your counselling journey is positive in helping you achieve your aims. 

My initial training at university, was in Psychodynamic Counselling, this also included an understanding of Person-Centred Therapy. This was later followed by training in Systemic Therapy at The Institute of Family Therapy, alongside gaining a certificate of proficiency as a relationship counsellor with Relate. I am currently working toward accreditation in Mentalization Based Therapy with Tavistock Relationships.

As well as my qualifications in working face-to-face, I have also completed accredited training in working online. Boundaries, safeguarding and making sure our client’s environment is safe, is as vital working online as it is when working face-to-face.

I hold full indemnity insurance, as well as being registered with the Information Commissioners Office. I adhere to the ethical framework of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists, of which I am a registered member.

I continue to work for recognised organisations, alongside my own private practice, as these provide a strong support network. I attend both regular supervision and continual professional development, which are vital in working ethically.

Fees

Counselling sessions: 50 minutes

Face to Face sessions £65 for couples/relationship counselling & £50 for individuals.

Zoom sessions £55 for couples/relationship & £40 for individuals.

This initial session will be at the same rate as ongoing counselling. Please call, text, or email me to arrange an initial session.

At our initial session we will discuss your aims of counselling. I will complete an initial assessment form. All counsellors must work within their limitations, so our work would only continue, if I feel I am able to support you with what you present in our initial appointment. The therapeutic relationship is a very important part of the work, so both client and counsellor must feel comfortable within the sessions. I aim for a more relaxed, rather than formal relationship.

Confidentiality is a vital part of creating a safe space. Our counsellor/client confidentiality begins at your initial session. There are always limits to confidentiality. If I felt that you, or another person was at significant risk of harm, confidentiality might need to be broken.

I will also be asking for permission, at this initial session, to collect your personal information. All data is stored safely. A contract regarding confidentiality and data protection will be emailed to you to sign/agree to before ongoing work can begin. If meeting face to face, this can be completed within the session.

I offer both short-term and long-term work. This can be discussed at your initial meeting, along with your availability in attendance. You as the client, will be in control of how long you attend counselling, whilst recognising together the importance of endings.