Helen Osgerby

I work on Monday afternoons, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

I offer short-term or open-ended counselling. With short-term counselling we agree the number of session that you would like to have and we work to that number of sessions. With open-ended counselling we work until you feel ready to end, reviewing how we are getting on regularly and planning for the ending when appropriate. There is not a ‘right way’ to have counselling. I am able to be flexible so when to end is something that we can discuss, review and change according to how you feel and what you need. 

I am a fully qualified Integrative counsellor. I work with a number of theoretical models which allows me the flexibility to determine which approach is the most appropriate depending on your needs. I integrate Psychodynamic Theory, the Person Centred approach and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) into my practice.

As well as private practice I also work voluntarily for a local Community Counselling Service.

In the past I have volunteered in a ‘befriending role’ for Look Ahead, working with clients with various complex psychological presentations.

I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (Â鶹ԭ´´) and work within the Â鶹ԭ´´â€™s ethical framework.

There are so many reasons that might prompt you to look for a counsellor. It is incredibly important that you feel comfortable and safe enough to talk about the most difficult and painful issues affecting you. I aim to create an environment where we can work collaboratively to build the trust and relationship that will enable this to happen, allowing you to speak freely and confidentially, without fear of judgement.

Experiences, whether these stem from early childhood or current situations, can have a profound effect on how you are experiencing day-to-day life. Feelings of anxiety or depression, previous trauma or relationships may be affecting you. I am of the firm belief that change is possible. My role is to help you identify the difficulties and navigate a path through.

I offer an initial free 30-minute phone call where you’re able to talk about your needs and ask questions to help you work out if you would like to proceed. There is no obligation following the call, it is important that you are able to make a confident, informed choice and to find a person you feel comfortable talking to.

Following the free 30-minute call each subsequent session will last for 50 minutes. 

The first session takes the form of an informal assessment. We will discuss things such as; what has brought you to counselling, your previous experiences if any, why have you sought out counselling at this time? It is also a useful opportunity to talk about your hopes and expectations. During this session I will ask you for some personal details; full name, address, emergency contact / GP contact information. This information is confidential and will be stored securely.

We will also go through my Counselling Contract so that you have a clear understanding about the way I work, including; confidentiality, safe guarding, payment and cancellation policy.

After this, each session will be led by you, you will be free to talk about whatever you need to, I will not direct the sessions.