Andy Martin

I currently have availability on Wednesday and Thursdays.

Counselling offers you the chance to take a step back, breathe, and explore what’s going on for you. Allowing yourself that time and space just to be yourself and be curious about how you are feeling can feel difficult but can be really rewarding.

I am a qualified integrative therapeutic counsellor which means my approach includes a range of theories that can support you. This approach means that my way of working can be flexible to suit your needs and support you the best that I can. I work with person-centred and psychodynamic theories. Person-centred theory is all about supporting you grow and make the changes that you want. Psychodynamic theory focusses on understanding your past and previous relationships are affecting you in the present.

A trusting relationship between counsellor and client is incredibly important and we will work to build this trust by going at a pace that suits you. My role is to listen and support you find the answers that you may be looking for. I won’t be giving you advise about what to do. As we are all unique individuals, what may be right for one person may not be right for you. If required, I may suggest resources or signpost you to other agencies if appropriate.

Areas that I have experience in are anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, men’s issues, LGBTQ+ , grief, loss, childhood trauma, addiction, and abuse. I am committed to regular CPD to develop my practice and understanding.

I offer a non-judgemental and empathic safe place for you to talk about and reflect on whatever you need to. I believe that you are the expert in what you are experiencing so you set the agenda for our sessions. It is through this process of talking about your experiences that you may find the answers you are trying to find.

My background is in teaching and currently teach Counselling at Gloucestershire College.

I am Visually impaired. This will not affect our work together, but I find that it is best to be open about this from the start to avoid any awkwardness/misunderstandings.

Before our first session I will arrange a brief introductory call to talk to you about what you can expect when you come for your first session. It will also be a good chance for you to ask any questions that you may have.