James York

I am a qualified counsellor who offers an integrative approach to my way of working. I am an Accredited Member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP).

Many of us seek access to counselling in order to help us overcome a specific issue we feel we are experiencing.

At times, my experience is that people often feel their own issues are too small to access help and support; nothing is ever too small if you feel it is impacting upon you.

Perhaps you feel lonely, have experience of a loss or bereavement. You may feel low in mood or depressed. Many of us experience anxiety or panic in certain situations, or when thinking about our past or the future. Perhaps you experience fears or trauma, low self-esteem or low self-confidence. You may be struggling with work, or struggling to be more assertive with those around you. You may find yourself replaying awkward or difficult moments over and over in your mind, impacting on your sleep, or wishing things were different for you.

As human beings, we have an innate need to connect with others, and if this is missing for us, we may struggle with our psychological and emotional wellbeing.

As a counsellor, by working together and getting to understand what you are currently feeling and experiencing, I will walk your path with you, offering a different insight and perspective. I will offer a non-judgmental, open and honest therapeutic relationship. Our work together isn't about me 'fixing you' or giving you advice, but about offering a space to explore what is going on, allowing you to develop skills and strategies to support yourself, and to plan for your future in a positive manner. 

Making the decision to access a counsellor can be a big step for many people. It is important that you find a counsellor that you feel comfortable with in order to get the most from your experience.

My training was underpinned by the person-centred approach, offering empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard to build a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship.

My training was further enhanced by Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy and a Humanistic approach.

In offering these key areas, my hope is that you are able to gain skills and strategies to support you in the here and now, and to empower you to make the changes you hope for.

My offer to you - I will walk alongside you, listen to your story, ask questions, and support you to explore and gain more clarity and strength in yourself, and find a positive way forward that is right for you.

My way of working

I offer a complementary 20 minute telephone call so we are able to talk through your hopes for accessing counselling, and what issues you would like to explore.

This telephone call allows you the opportunity to check if I am the right counsellor for you; there is no obligation to move forward with therapy if you do not feel comfortable to do so. It also allows me the opportunity to ensure I have the skills and experience to support you. Should I feel you may be better supported elsewhere, I will discuss this with you and provide other options for you to explore.

Should you wish to access counselling with me, I will then send you an agreement and consent form to complete and return to me.

In our first session we will agree our therapy contract. Sessions will usually be weekly in the first instance, and will last for 50 minutes. Around 10 minutes before the end of the session we will begin to wind down, discuss any homework / areas of reflection for you, and any arrangements for the next session.  

Charge per session: £45.

Clinical supervision is available on a one to one basis for counsellors, trainee counsellors or other professionals seeking supervision as part of their role.

This is available either face to face in the comfort of my room at Eco House in Darlington, or alternatively online via a secure video platform.

Fees for clinical supervision are as follows:

Clinical supervision - £45 per hour