Hendrik Smit

I currently have availability for both in-person (face-to-face; therapy room in Llandeilo) and online or telephone counselling nationwide.  Couples counselling is provided face-to-face and online only.

It can take a lot of courage to ask for support when we’re struggling. You may feel low, anxious, worthless, lost, easily overwhelmed, not knowing which direction to take, or how to cope with what life has thrown in your way. Whatever the issues are, counselling provides a space just for you, somewhere for you to explore your thoughts and feelings in complete confidence; somewhere to work out the intricacies of that which is troubling you, and in doing so identify patterns and meaning in that which has caused you to seek counselling.

As a fully qualified Person-Centred Counsellor, I offer non-judgmental acceptance, empathic understanding and sincerity. This helps build a trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable exploring anything that is on your mind, but also helps you find your own answers by helping you get a deeper understanding of what is going on for you, around the issue that you bring. This may reveal to you how past experiences have shaped who you are and how you function. This may in turn prompt you to want to be more ‘yourself’ instead of who you feel you need to be. Whatever the journey, it can be a difficult one, but I am here to support you on that journey.

Whilst my approach is Person-Centred, I also draw inspiration from other approaches and theories. In addition, I am trained to work with issues of a spiritual nature. For me, being Person-Centred means to be flexible in my approach where this is in the service of the client.

I adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling.

Issues I work with include, but are not limited to, relationship issues, loss, bereavement, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, sex and sexual identity, and spirituality.

It is only natural to be hesitant in contacting a therapist. “Will I like them? What if I don’t? What if I’m not sure?” It is important to feel comfortable with the person you’ll share personal aspects of your life with, so I offer an initial 30-minute consultation for free. This allows you to ask any questions and gives you an idea of what it might be like to work with me. In return, it provides me with an idea of your reasons for coming to counselling, and your hopes and expectations. In addition, we’ll agree on some formalities to set mutual expectations (e.g., day and time of sessions, how to contact the other, confidentiality).