Rachel Edinborough

I work from a person-centred approach to counselling/psychotherapy and integrate a solution-focused brief therapy approach to short-term work. I also integrate systemic thinking into my work when considering relational problems in counselling with couples, families and groups. I work with the belief that all people are the experts of their own lives and thus within the counselling relationship are deserving of my respect and curiosity. I offer a non-judgmental, authentic and empathetic environment for my clients to feel safe in exploring their problems, traumas and distress. I provide a space for my clients to work on personal development and make their own choices about their future. I listen tentatively and sensitively to my clients throughout the whole counselling journey. I acknowledge the powerful impact of developing a therapeutic relationship with my clients where trust and confidentiality is an integral part. I help couples and families to find new ways of understanding their problems relationally and work collaboratively with them to find ways that they can move forward. I recognise the importance of working with various relationships and systems around specific presenting problems which are affecting family functioning. I help individuals to increase their self-awareness and find a deeper understanding of their difficulties so that they can make steps towards their preferred future. I love working with people in this way and feel privileged to be a part of their journey towards change and reaching their full potential. 

I have over 12 years experience of working as a Counsellor/Psychotherapist. I originally qualified in Humanistic Counselling Practice (specifically the Person-Centred approach), then specialising in working with trauma and solution-focused brief therapy. I have gone on to train in systemic thinking and practice, specifically working with couples and families. I have extensive experience of working with vulnerable children and young people within various practice settings, such as schools, colleges, universities and residential children's homes. I am the founding director and service manager of a community interest company where we offer counselling projects for those most in need in our community. I have much experience of working with adults in various practice settings such as women's aid, charitable organisations, EAP programmes and within private practice. I work with individuals, couples and families both short-term or long-term.

The first session will include an initial consultation where clients can ask questions and get an idea about whether we could work well together. I will also get an idea here about the presenting problems and whether I am a suitable fit to offer support. We will discuss the counselling agreement and make arrangements for further sessions if desired.