Life Sense Counselling

As life challenges us, we often feel a sense of overwhelm or disconnection with self and others, without a clear view of how to approach issues and make decisions to move forward. I work with clients to explore a wide range of issues including identity; self-esteem; life transitions; trauma; work stress and burnout; anxiety; depression; addictions; grief and loss; and relationship and intimacy issues.
I am a Masters qualified integrative counsellor working with individuals and couples. I tailor therapy to your individual needs, drawing from a range of counselling modes incorporating talk therapy, cognitive behaviour therapy, family systems, strengths-based, and coaching. My focus is on “what has happened to you” not “what is wrong with you”. Where there is a diagnosis, I approach therapy with a view to ‘living with’ rather than being ‘defined by’ a diagnosis or a label.
We are not one-dimensional beings, so I work holistically, focussing on your health and wellbeing (biological) and the influence of your family, social and cultural systems (sociological), mental health and mood (psychological) and worldview. These elements all make up why you are who you are and understanding yourself is the key to working out what you want in life.

I have a previous career in the corporate sector prior to studying Counselling, so am well placed to navigate work related stress, career issues, managing organisation dynamics, effective communication, and work-life balance.

You may just want to have a chat and a ‘sounding board’ to look at things from different angles or there might be long term concerns or past things that are presenting now that you want to specifically work on. Sometimes it is a symptom that presents such as anxiety or panic attacks or a noticeable decrease in mood or rising irritation or anger. Perhaps there are relationship issues at work or with your partner, family, or friends. It is your session, and I can follow your lead in what you want to unpack or be more directive if you are not sure how to start.
Counselling is a mutual, collaborative process. I cannot change you, but act as a facilitator. I can assist you to self-examine to empower you to make the choices that are right for your life. It is not my role to tell you what to do, rather, assist you to weigh up your choices/consequences and willingness to accept the responsibility for choices. Objectivity is key and I am committed to help you in this process.
In style I am empathetic, authentic, warm, open-minded and intuitive. I engage you in two-way dialogue where you can experience saying what you need without fear of judgement, leaving you with a sense of being genuinely seen and heard. Whilst at times I will challenge you, I want you to leave a session with new insight and perspective, feeling empowered to progress.

Please contact me for an initial conversation to briefly discuss what you are seeking counselling for and to decide if I am the right counsellor for you.
Yours in Health!
Sara