Andrea Elder

Out of office on a Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.  Face to face appointments on a Friday at Elgin Counselling Centre and flexible availability on a Wednesday daytime and in the evening.

I provide person-centred counselling by creating a safe, accepting and non-judgemental environment where clients feel valued and understood.  I believe that each person is an expert in their own life and have the capacity for growth and positive change.  My role is to provide the right conditions, listen actively and empathise deeply, to support and empower clients in exploring their own thoughts, feelings and solutions at their own pace.   I encourage clients to develop greater self-awareness, and confidence in making their own choices and to build resilience, overcoming barriers to past experiences and moving towards the best version of themselves.  I recognise the importance of maintaining professional boundaries, respecting confidentiality and working ethically with professional standards.

When you work with me you can expect a warm, welcoming, trusting environment where you are free to be yourself.  I will listen with empathy, respect and genuine interest, ensuring you feel heard and understood, without criticism or pressure.  Our sessions will move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.  My role is not to tell you what to do but to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, build on strengths, and develop confidence in your decisions.  Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, loss, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, or the impact on past trauma, I will support you to understand your feelings, develop coping strategies and improve your overall wellbeing.  You do not have to cope alone, together we can explore what matters most to you, helping you gain clarity, build confidence, and find a way forward which feels right for you.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another in a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental environment.  We will talk about what has brought you to counselling, what you hope to achieve, and any questions and concerns you may have about the process.  There is no pressure to share everything straight away.  You are free to talk at your own pace, and you remain in control of what you choose to discuss.  My role is to listen with empathy, respect and acceptance, providing a supportive space where you can feel heard and understood.  You will also discuss confidentiality, how counselling works, and agree on how we can work together  in a way that best meets your individual needs.    By the end of the session, you will have a better understanding of what to expect and can decide whether continuing counselling feels right for you.