Annabel Ashley

I am not taking any new clients or referrals for now.

I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Integrative Counsellor with The British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists.

I have experience of working with adults, couples, families, children and young people.

In my career I have mentored and enabled people to cope with managing challenges, providing them with the tools and mechanisms to positively move forward in their life.

I have worked for the NHS, providing therapy for individuals, couples, families and carers, affected by cancer and other life threatening illnesses. 

I have also worked for a mental health organisation, providing therapy for people who have been diagnosed with a severe mental health illness.

I am experienced in working with Transgender people.  A child or adult who senses or feels they are confused about their gender often feel different from their peers and uncertain about their identity.  Some embrace their transgender feelings, whilst others may struggle with their gender identity, leading to confusion and creating anxiety.

Mindfulness - means awareness in its simplest translation. It is a way of paying attention, in the present moment. Cultivating Mindful awareness can help you work directly with day-to-day challenges, turning towards them instead of reacting against them. 

Mindfulness can help improve your emotional and psychological wellbeing. Helping you deal better with symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress.

Teaching Mindfulness techniques to young people, reduces their anxiety and stress levels during exam time and other periods in their life, improving their overall psychological and emotional wellbeing.

Within my own private practice, I offer confidentiality in a quiet, safe environment, where you can share and talk through your problems with someone you can trust.

My approach is Integrative, which means I have studied various therapeutic approaches and using my knowledge and skills I adapt my work to best suit your needs.

My personal and work life experiences have provided the perfect foundation for my work, drawing on years of knowledge to support people with life changing challenges.

There may be a range of issues you are struggling with, due to events, triggers or experiences and these are some of the areas I can help you with:

Anxiety - Depression -  Relationship or family issues - Stress

Feeling stuck or perhaps struggling with life in general

Low self esteem

Childhood trauma

Addiction -  Anger - Abuse

Bereavement  -  Cancer diagnosis  -  Different kinds of loss

Sexual issues - Body Image

Talking and exploring what may feel painful, confusing or distressing can help you process and manage life a lot easier. 

There are many reasons why you may want counselling, my website covers all areas I can assist you with.

As a Supervisor, I am passionate about supporting and mentoring you in recognising the often complex needs and difficulties you may face.

I have mentored and supervised people for over thirty years, helping and supporting their personal development.

I have worked in the NHS in Psycho-oncology, Mental Health Services, Secondary Schools and a local hospice. 

Supervision has a special role by providing a solid base to help you make sense of your experiences and to facilitate your professionalism.  Looking after yourself and your clients and a two-way process of shared responsibility between you and I.

With students, the same principle of mutual reflection applies, as well as more emphasis on the educative function of supervision and the supportive role, helping you with your own personal self-development.

I will share in your successes, help you when you wobble and share my resources, knowledge and experience with you. Supporting you to explore feelings around your work, how you are managing yourself and guide you in your own self reflection and personal development.  

I can help you unpick ethical dilemmas, maintenance of legal practice, health and safety issues and risk assessments all within a supportive containing relationship.

My supervision approach is based on 'The Seven Eyed Supervision Model' by Hawkins & Shohet, which focuses on the interaction between you as the therapist, your client and myself as your supervisor.

I know how difficult it can be to develop a private practice and I can offer my guidance and support in developing your own practice, if this is something that you need.

I am knowledgeable in Government Acts, as well as Safeguarding legislations for Children and Adults, including 'The Prevent Duty' and 'DoLS'.