What is discussed during the sessions remains wholly the decision of the client.  I may identify patterns and themes that emerge throughout the sessions and may suggest exploring particular incidents or topics.  However at no time would I press a client to spend time focussing on any aspect of their lives that they did not wish to. 

Counselling tends to deal with experiences in the present that are impacting on our lives in a negative way.  Many of the diverse range of negative thoughts and feelings that continue to cause us difficulties have common roots in earlier events in our lives and the way we continue to view them.  By taking time to revisit these experiences in a safe and supportive environment, we can begin to manage our feelings more effectively and start to choose how we respond to the world around us.  Time will be spent on finding better ways to manage situations in the present while also considering the potential impact of past experiences. How much of our focus is on the past or the present will, again, be down to the client to decide which would be the most helpful to them. 

Counselling has proven to be effective for people with a wide range of unwanted thoughts and feelings that affect their behaviour.  These include anxiety and depression, fears and phobias, compulsions and addictions.  This could be the result of a single incident, such as a traumatic event, or a period of negative experiences, for example long-term abuse or neglect.  Counselling can help people to overcome their negative experiences and reconnect with what is important to them so that they can live more fully in the present.

Any concerns about my ability to work with particular issues or areas of experience can be discussed at the introductory session.