Helen Smith

Are you having difficulty making sense of things? Perhaps it feels too difficult to share your true thoughts and feelings with those closest to you or maybe you're getting too many conflicting opinions and it all seems overwhelming. My name is Helen and I would like to assure you that you don't have to just cope or 'get on with things'. I will be with you as you explore, on an authentic level, what is happening in your life and what you feel you would like to change. 

How do I work?

I work as a relational integrative counsellor and am trained in a wide variety of therapeutic models (such as psychodynamic, person-centred, transactional analysis, CBT etc.) which I draw from and integrate to meet the specific needs of each of my clients. Working relationally is based upon the value of human connection and recognises that healthy relationships are fundamental for people to be able to develop, thrive and for ongoing personal wellbeing. Therefore, the therapeutic relationship which we develop together, where you feel it is safe for you to explore your feelings and heal from distress, will be at the heart of the counselling.

What are my areas of expertise and special interest?

Over the years, I have developed expertise in working with people who are troubled by anxiety and depression, stress, low self-esteem or are experiencing a life crises such as a bereavement, a relationship breakdown or another type of loss.

As a former teacher, SENDCo and school counsellor, I also have a strong interest in family relationships and the stresses and pressures of family, work or school life from the perspective of the parent or the child.   

What will your counselling experience be like with me?

I will provide you with a safe and confidential space, to listen and really hear your story and experiences, without any judgement.

I am a warm, friendly person and a good listener; with strong empathic understanding and vast experience from my own personal life. I believe that kindness, compassion and understanding are the cornerstones of life and that everyone has the potential to heal and find happiness. 

I work in a flexible way and tailor counselling so you get the most benefit from your therapeutic experience with me. I have total commitment to working with you to make sure that I fully understand your expectations of counselling and what it is you would like us to focus on because you are the expert on you.

Above all, I put my heart into my therapeutic work and love supporting people and seeing the positive changes that counselling and psychotherapy can bring about.

My fees are £45 per session for adults and £50 per session for children and young people.