Jenny Oyston

You may be quite nervous or uncertain about embarking on a course of therapy. Perhaps you're not sure whether you can be helped or you're not used to sharing your problems. For this reason I always offer a free introductory session so that we can take a brief look at the difficulties you are facing and also see if we feel comfortable working together. If counselling is to be successful, we must be able to establish a trusting, open relationship. 

I'm not very fond of labels like 'depression' or 'anxiety' because you're not an 'issue', you're a unique person and I feel our purpose in counselling is for us both to get to know and understand you better. This may help you with making decisions or changes in your life, or coming to terms with things that can't be changed. 

If, after meeting, we decide to go ahead with counselling, we will talk about number of sessions, ways of working etc. I like to try to tailor my work to the individual client before me; some people might want advice or direction, others prefer to work in a more exploratory way. Ultimately, it is you who will make any necessary changes, facilitated by the insights we gain together. I hope you will find new confidence and potential to enhance your future life!

Initially trained as a person-centred counsellor, I have since undertaken a range of training and experience. I gained a Diploma in Integrative Counselling for groups and individuals and have practised for over 10 years as a supervisor of both students and qualified counsellors.

I also have a Diploma in Relationship Counselling.