The counselling process.

I ask questions so that I can learn about your life and your various relationships. There is no hurry. You will almost certainly feel better for talking about your problems, and a few tears means that we have touched a nerve, and often signifies the beginning of the healing process.

When you feel ready, we will begin to explore where your thoughts seem a bit muddled, where things seem to have gone wrong, and how we can work towards improving your life. We get used to our misery and change can often seem frightening or simply too much effort, but we take things a step at a time and at your own pace.

I’ve studied a range of therapies and have an unbiased approach, seeing every woman as an individual with individual needs. I have worksheets which can help you to understand how life has become so problematic, and I can help you with coping skills, communication and relaxation. I am essentially a very practical person and my ultimate aim is for you to become your own therapist.

Everything you tell me is completely confidential.

I have a special interest in women’s issues and know how difficult it is to be our true self when we also have to be daughter, mum, wife, wage earner, and all the other roles that society thinks we should be. I have been married for forty eight years and have a daughter, two sons, and seven grandchildren.

In line with good counselling practice and for your security, I work to the COSCA counselling code of ethics and have my own supervising counsellor, 150 miles away, with whom I discuss my work; but I will never reveal your identity except in a dire emergency. This is why, if I see you outside the counselling situation, I will not obviously greet you; although I am happy for you to speak to me.

Best wishes,
Jen