How I work

My approach is flexible and relational. I prioritise building a relationship in which you feel listened to, accepted and able to express yourself. I bring warmth, curiosity and clear boundaries, adapting the pace and level of support to what you need.

You might come to counselling knowing exactly what you want to talk about, or arrive feeling blank, overwhelmed or unsure where to begin. You do not need to have worked out what is wrong or how to explain it before coming. We can begin with whatever you are able to bring that day.

Some people prefer their sessions to be mostly conversational: making sense of what is going on, putting words to things, and working through what feels difficult or confusing. Others find it easier to think and talk while doing a low-pressure activity, or prefer to spend some time doing something quietly without needing to talk. This can change from one session to the next.

Sessions can include creative materials, games, images and sensory activities. These can offer another way to explore experiences that are difficult to put into words. Doing something with your hands or working visually can also take some of the pressure off talking and give you time to think. You do not need any artistic skills. The activities we use have a therapeutic purpose and are chosen with your interests, communication style, sensory needs and stage of development in mind. You do not have to sit still, hold eye contact or keep a conversation going in a way that feels unnatural.

I do not work to a fixed script. If you find open-ended conversations difficult or prefer more structure, I can take a more active role. I can ask questions, help you organise your thoughts, offer ideas for us to consider, and help you make sense of patterns. I will not simply sit back and wait for you to find something to say if that leaves you feeling stuck.

If helpful, we can also explore how emotions and neurodivergence affect everyday life. This might include practical support with planning, organisation and coping with day-to-day demands. I can help you understand your needs, recognise your strengths and work out what support would be useful, including how to communicate this and have a say in decisions that affect you.

My role is to help you understand what might be going on, how some of your ways of coping have developed, and whether they are still helping you today. I will do my best to say things clearly, check that I have understood properly, and adjust when I have not. You can disagree with me or tell me when something does not fit.

I will stay active in the work without taking over or pushing for change before you are ready. The aim is to help you understand yourself more clearly, respond to yourself with less judgement, and work out what you want to change in a way that takes account of who you are and what matters to you.