Valerie Bradford

Monday  9:00 - 14:00 and 18:30

Tuesday  9:00 - 14:00 

Wednesday  9:00 - 14:00

Friday  9:00 - 14:00 and 18:30

If you’re struggling with your mental health, it can feel like you’ve lost sight of the person you once were, or the person you’d like to be. You might feel isolated and unable to connect with friends and loved ones or you may have ceased to enjoy the things you once took pleasure in.

I understand how difficult the decision to reach out for support can be, but many people find that telling their story to someone who will listen without judgement is incredibly beneficial. Whatever challenges you are facing, there is always a possibility for renewal.

How I work

Counsellors use a range of techniques to support their clients. My sessions are tailored to each client’s needs, which means we’ll choose the techniques that work best for you. This might include elements of CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), which focusses on challenging specific negative thoughts and behaviours, Psychodynamic therapy which looks at how our early life experience has influenced how we think and feel today and Person-Centred therapy which allows you to explore your thoughts and emotions at your own pace. I may also include lifestyle approaches such as Mindfulness to help you manage your mental health longer term.

I am a qualified counsellor which means I’ve studied therapeutic counselling and gained a qualification which is recognised by the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP), the largest professional body for counsellors in the UK. You will also find me on their professional register. 

I run my own private practice and volunteer at a secondary school and have experience of working with both teenagers and adults. I’ve worked with people facing a range of life challenges including anxiety, depression, bereavement, obsessions and compulsions, trauma, work and exam related stress and relationship issues.

Therapy offers us a unique chance to look at ourselves, to identify what is most valuable and to work out how to live a more fulfilling life. My aim is to accompany you on a path of discovery, helping you identify unhelpful patterns and encouraging you to make positive change. Most importantly, you will always receive a warm welcome in a friendly and supportive environment.  

Sessions

I am able to offer short-term, focused sessions as well as longer term counselling. Sessions are currently only offered online or by phone.

Qualifications

CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling

CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies

CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills

CPCAB Level 2 Award in Introduction to Counselling Skills

Borough of Bromley Workforce Development: Safeguarding Children Level 1 

Mindfulness teacher training certificate

MIND: Mindful Mums Befriender training

I encourage my clients to get to know me through an introductory session free of charge. In this informal setting we'll talk about what has brought you to counselling, how I might support you and what you can expect from me. This can be done over the phone or via Zoom.