Arabis Oglesby

I currently have availability for counselling appointments on Monday and Tuesday. My working hours are 9-5.

Life can be a difficult journey to navigate especially in the stressful world we live in today, and if you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or at a crossroads counselling may help you to move forwards in the direction of better possibilities.

Having previously had counselling myself I understand how powerful it can be in helping you to understand yourself with more clarity and improve your mental wellbeing, enabling you to navigate the challenges you face and make transformative life changes.

I can accompany you on this leg of your journey to;

• Explore your feelings in a safe and supportive environment

• Gain a deeper insight into the issues you may be facing

• Find healthier ways of coping with the symptoms you are experiencing from your current concerns

• Manage life transitions including bereavement/loss and living with a long-term illness or life limiting illness

• Assist in changing the way you think and behave to improve your relationship with yourself and others

• To recognise and understand the impact of trauma and work towards healing

About Me

I have 26 years’ experience working as a nurse in a wide variety of settings within the NHS. I have always felt passionately about the importance of treating patients holistically, which led to me complete my training as a counsellor. A key focus in my practice is working with and aligning the mind and body addressing a broad range of issues that may be impacting on you in the long and short term.

I have been qualified as a BACP Registered Person-Centred Integrative Counsellor since 2020 with previous experience working for Cancer Services at Dorset County Hospital counselling both patients and relatives affected by cancer including bereavement. I have also worked for the Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service (STARS Dorset) counselling clients affected by sexual assault, domestic abuse and childhood sexual abuse.

I am focused primarily on developing a counselling relationship based on trust; working together to create a solid foundation to build from. I am trained in multiple counselling models and will work alongside you to explore your presenting concerns, adapting my approach depending on your needs and learning style. I like to work creatively being a visual thinker myself and will often use metaphor and imagery to offer in an alternative perspective and to bring our work to life.

My areas of specialist interest include;

• Long-term health conditions and life-limiting illnesses including gastrointestinal disorders and cancer

• Bereavement and loss

• Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) including sexual trauma, childhood sexual abuse and domestic abuse

• Counselling the elderly

I work in accordance with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Ethical Framework and have supervision each month to explore the ethical elements of my work and to ensure I am working in the best interests of my clients. All clients are discussed in complete confidence.

My working days are Monday and Tuesday from my Counselling Office in Dorchester. I offer face-to-face and online appointments.

I advise weekly sessions for continuity of our work together.

Counselling appointments are 50 minutes long and cost £60 per session with concessionary rates available for student counsellors. Invoices will be sent to be paid 48 hours before your appointment via BACS transfer. Alternative arrangements can be considered if you do not have access to this method of payment.

I offer short or long-term work dependent on your needs. I am fully insured by Holistic Insurance.

The first session covers a full assessment.