Frances Randerson

I am a Humanistic Integrative counsellor in Bristol, experienced in working with diverse aspects of mental ill health. I work 1:1 with adults, both short and longer term, providing a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space where even very difficult emotions are welcome. I qualified as a psychotherapeutic counsellor, with a core modality of Transactional Analysis, in 2010. Before this I was a Psychiatric Nurse in the NHS and more recently I worked for Bristol Mind. 

I am currently studying for an MA in Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapy and thus I integrate a variety of theories in order to inform my practice and help me to be as attuned to your needs as possible.

My approach can help you feel more confident to change behaviours, feelings and thoughts gradually over time, as we explore and discover their unconscious meanings and historical motivations. Your whole body as well as your mind is acknowledged in this process, so recognising that you are not simply a diagnosis or set of symptoms can also lead to you gaining greater self-awareness and ultimately, self-acceptance. 

The pace and content of our sessions will be led by you and what you need. I am fascinated by what links a person's mental health and their unique life experiences, so within the therapeutic relationship we create I aim to help you to get to know yourself better, so that over time a more accurate representation of your true self can emerge. 

People who come for counselling originate from incredibly diverse backgrounds, many having never previously considered embarking on such a journey, so I understand that it might feel overwhelming at first to have someone so actively listening to, supporting and doing their best to understand you...but as our relationship develops and deepens you may also experience some profound, lasting changes and begin to feel more confident about making different choices, for yourself.

My practice would normally be on the top floor of a Heritage building in central Bristol, however due to the current Covid - 19 situation, I am only seeing clients online via the Zoom platform until further notice.

During our first session the intention is for us both to get a sense of whether we can work well together; it's for you to begin to tell your story, prompted and encouraged by some questions, which will also help me to get a really good understanding of who and where you are right now and also what you might need from me. 

Some therapists offer first sessions free or at a reduced fee but I do not, as I think we can work just as hard in a first session as in any other...and that fee is ultimately an investment into your ongoing mental health.