Making contact with a counsellor can seem daunting for many people; the fact is though, most people seek professional counselling at some point in their lives. After all, we get expert help with our finances, our cars, our jobs, but the one area most people seem to think they can be self-taught is their personal lives. Unfortunately it usually does not work. If our car breaks down do we try it fix it ourselves or do we go to a mechanic? We go to a mechanic and for obvious reasons.

Trying to cope alone we often end up going round in circles, we end up after weeks, months, years, just where we were before. Going to a counsellor gives us a chance to talk in private to someone who will really listen and who has real understanding and skills in the areas of personality and relationships.

Friends and family may want the best for us, but often they have a vested interest in the decisions you make and have no real understanding of the issues. You may feel you don’t want to burden or worry loved ones, or those closest to you may be a part of the problem.

It can be of enormous relief to most people to finally talk to someone who does not judge, who gives information instead of advice, and who will not be shocked or upset by anything you have to say. I work from home and can provide you with a safe place to talk.

The aim is for you not only to solve problems, but to live the life you want, not the life expected of you.

I specialise in the following areas. Please click on the one that concerns you:

• Grief and loss
• Depression, anxiety and panic attacks
• Sexual abuse
• Relationships
• Dealing with separation and divorce