Stuart Estrella-Pinto

Hello, 

My name is Stuart and I am a fully trained and Accredited Counsellor. I also hold a Masters degree in Psychology. I have extensive experience of providing counselling on a wide range of issues, this experience having been gained over the years within my private practice and for several organisations, including the NHS, universities and charities.

During the Coronavirus outbreak, counselling appointments are by phone or video only. Having counselling via phone or video is somewhat different to face-to-face sessions and you should ensure that the Counsellor you choose is trained and experienced. I have specialised training in providing counselling by phone / video and have several years of experience of working in this way, not just during the Covid epidemic. Indeed, some of my clients prefer to always have their sessions by phone or video for the convenience it offers.

Sometimes people are not sure if they should have counselling, maybe because they feel their problem is too small or sometimes the opposite is true, the problem feels too big or, maybe, it feels taboo to discuss. In my view, the decision to have counselling should focus on the impact it has on you. If you are in any kind of distress and talking to friends and family is not possible or has not helped, then I think counselling should be considered.

My aim is to provide you with support and help you work through whatever problems to you are facing with the aim of reducing or eliminating your distress. As a Counsellor, I work without prejudice or judgement and at the pace that best suits you. The focus of the therapy I provide is on helping you understand the causes of the troubles you are facing and to try to help you find solutions that actually work for you. In this way, the work I undertake with clients is a collaboration between us.

If you would like to book an appointment or have further questions, please get in touch.

The therapy I offer is either face-to-face or by phone and video. The therapy is confidential and tailored to your needs. Counselling session are usually booked on a week-to-week basis and the frequency of sessions will depend on your needs and availability.

The first session consists of an assessment. This is an opportunity for you to tell me about your problems and for me to get some context and history about what has happened. There are opportunities for you to ask questions and we will talk about what I can offer and decide what to do next.