Gary Walton

Who am I?

I am a registered Psychodynamic Counsellor (often referred to as a Psychotherapist) who has many years experience working in Private Practice and as a Staff Counsellor at Highgate Counselling Centre. I have effectively worked with individuals struggling with low mood, anxiety, stress, loneliness, low self esteem and self worth, as well as more acute issues like suicidal thoughts, self harm and relationship difficulties. I am motivated to assist individuals in understanding the patterns and the behaviours that are not only troubling them in the present, but also negatively impacting their hopes and expectations for the future.

How would I help you?

Firstly I would listen attentively and show a genuine interest in what is troubling you at this current time, recognising how it is impacting your day-to-day life. I would be curious about your life story and consider how this may be influencing your current outlook, both positively and negatively. If and when appropriate, I may look to make connections between current difficulties and past experiences, which may allow space for historic thoughts and feelings to be shared in a environment where we can explore them with consideration and care. Often there can be a real sense of relief and enthusiasm when connections are made, especially when this level of self awareness previously felt out of your reach. This can be highly motivating, especially as you recognise the potential for hope and transformation, and how that would positively affect your life. This developed self awareness can contribute to an increase in self esteem and self worth, whilst building confidence in your own ability to not only deal with, but also manage life's challenges.

I am based in Bushey, Hertfordshire, which allows me to see clients in person from North London, Watford, Stanmore, Harrow, Elstree and Borehamwood. 

I am also trained to work online, so I can work with clients from the UK and around the world. 

Depending on your presenting challenges and expectations for counselling, I offer both short-term (12 weeks) and long-term (open-ended) counselling.

If short-term is preferable, we will decide on a specific issue to focus on and spend 12 sessions attending to it, anticipating a developing understanding of the issue, which will relieve the associated symptoms.

If long-term is a more suitable option, it will provide us time to understand just how much of your current struggles are linked to past experiences and explore these often neglected thoughts and feelings in a considered and understanding environment. 

I offer the opportunity to meet online for a free 15-minute session, where I can answer any queries and you can decide whether you would like to book an initial session. 

The first full session will be 50 minutes, and can be conducted online or in person. This session will allow us to determine if working together will be beneficial for you. 

Unlike regular sessions, I may take notes in an initial session so I can develop a picture of your current circumstances and history,  and what you may be looking to achieve through counselling.