Diane Rathfield

Hi and thanks for clicking on my profile!!

I am Diane, a qualified Therapeutic Counsellor and a registered member of the BACP. I work with a person-centered approach to my sessions "which means you are in charge" I integrate my styles and approaches based on the person and their individual needs, I am aware we are all different and no one approach to therapy "fits all."

I have worked for over 30 years helping people, through various initiatives, to change their lives. I am driven by a passion to assist people to feel more in control and develop a self-awareness that promotes acceptance and a happier life. I believe that when we are struggling counselling is effective in helping us move past our problems. Often we need to look back to move forward which entails some psychodynamic approaches being integrated into practice in sessions.

I currently have a private practice in Belfast working with Adults and Young People and also offer therapy in post-primary Schools across the province. My aim in schools is to help students with various emotional issues to encourage and maintain good mental health.

I am also available for sessions using the ZOOM platform that became popular during the pandemic and remains so for those clients who prefer not to work with their therapist face to face but from the comfort of their home or other safe space.

Qualifications

CPCAB: Therapeutic Counselling

University of Ulster: Diploma Counselling Studies

Queens University: Diploma Vocational Guidance Counselling

BACP online training

CRUSE Bereavement training

Suicide awareness training

Safeguarding Champion training

BSC Hons

CSBS Diploma Psychology  

Although my style is person-centered I integrate a psychodynamic approach with clients where appropriate enabling them to explore their feelings more deeply, and encouraging self-awareness and self-acceptance. My aim is not to "cure" but to encourage understanding and help my clients recognise their internal strengths through a trusting therapeutic relationship.

I work with my clients in whichever delivery method they feel most comfortable, ZOOM and telephone sessions have proven very popular since the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic and face-to-face sessions are ongoing,

My sessions are usually one hour however not all clients need or want to commit to ongoing long-term therapy, therefore I offer single-session therapy which can last for up to 3 hours depending on the client's issues and their individual issues.

if you contact me we will have an initial conversation on the phone when we will agree on your preferred mode for therapy either, Zoom, face -face or by phone. We agree a time and day and also the fee for your work.

Following this introduction (which is a free call)

Our first session will include an initial assessment during which I can identify key issues and areas for development.

We discuss and agree on confidentiality, and the initial period for our work together, which is usually 6-8 sessions but can be fewer or more this is driven by you!