Edward Thomas

I am passionate about the power of therapy to help improve people's lives and I believe that everyone should have access to talking therapy. Alongside my private practice, I also work as a counsellor and mental health practitioner in a mental health charity. I also practice workplace counselling. I provide person-centred counselling based on the Humanistic Existential approach.

My approach is based on the idea that you understand your own world best. My aim is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to speak and be listened to. I will use my skills to help you explore and reflect in a way which can often be difficult outside the therapy room. Many clients find this a really helpful way to work out issues. I aim to share my observations in a way which will help you find your own insights.

The therapy is client-led meaning that it is up to you what you would like to explore. My role is to support you as you do this. This means that you will have lots of space to explore your thoughts and feelings. This could include me making practical suggestions where appropriate or offering challenges at times. My focus though, is to empower you.

I hold a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. I have also obtained Certificates in Counselling Studies and Counselling Skills. As well as these qualifications, I have completed a Foundation Degree in Counselling with the Open University. Further study such as this is an important part of my commitment to continually improving my practice. 

I am committed to undertaking regular training as part of my continuing professional development. I have completed training in online and telephone counselling, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), using CBT skills, as well as courses on a wide variety of other topics. In addition to this, I have completed courses in mental health first aid (MHFA) and applied suicide intervention skills training (ASIST).

Face-to-face counselling

This type of counselling is the format that many clients will be most familiar with. For some, meeting in person provides the most comfortable experience. It may also be where they feel most in touch with their counsellor. Should you choose this option your sessions will take place in my dedicated therapy room which is attached to my home. Address details will be sent to you before your first session. 

Please note that, while I am currently offering face-to-face sessions once again, this service may be suspended if changes to government restriction require it. 

Online counselling

Some clients prefer to access counselling online. They may find it difficult to attend face to face sessions for a variety of reasons or they may simply find the online experience more suitable for them. Online sessions can take place with video and audio or audio only. Should you choose this option, instructions for accessing my online services will be sent to you before your first session.

Telephone counselling

Some clients prefer telephone counselling. They may prefer not to be seen during sessions, they may not have an internet connection or they many simply find the telephone experience more suitable. Should you choose this option, instructions for accessing my telephone services will be sent to you before your first session.

Full details about attending your session will be sent to you ahead of your first session. This will include a copy of the Counselling Agreement and Initial Assessment, as well as all the details that you will need for accessing your session. 

I appreciate that starting counselling can sometimes be daunting. If you have any questions ahead of your first session please get in touch with me so that I can answer them.