Eating Disorders Counselling in Salford

It is very human to have psychological difficulties at various points in our lives. Difficult things can happen to us leaving us feeling scared and/ or low/ depressed. Society can also make us feel pressurised to look a certain way and we can feel pretty worthless if don't believe that we conform to these societal expectations. All of these can be both frightening and overwhelming, which makes it so important to have a calm, compassionate and skilful therapist to guide you towards recovery.

My name is Mark Owen and I am a BACP and COSRT registered Counsellor with a degree in Marriage and Family therapy and a Postgraduate Diploma in Integrative Psychotherapy. Since 2012 I have worked in a wide variety of therapeutic settings both private care and within the NHS including, general mental health services, Eating Disorders Clinic, Bereavement Counselling and a Sexual Health Clinic. There are many models of therapy and everyone responds differently to the various methods. Using an Integrative Model of therapy, which means I use a range of different models, allows me to design a more tailor made plan for you.

Winner of "Counselling Service of the Year 2020". Providing a range of evidence based treatments, but a warm, safe and comforting way of doing so. This allows me to help you reach your goals faster and feel better for doing so.

There are many reasons that people come to therapy. For some, it might be that past events are impacting life in the present. For others, it is a current issue that requires working through. I am trained in Integrative Transactional Analysis. I can offer you a private and confidential space to talk openly about what is concerning you. I have experience of working with: abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, divorce, eating disorders , employment difficulties, health related issues, mental health issues, OCD, parenting, relationships, self harm, separation, sexual assault, stress and trauma.

Empathy and validation are the key foundations of my work and I think finding an understanding of a clients perspective helps them in turn to find solutions for peace of mind for and within themselves. Working in this client centred way has been incredibly fulfilling these last few years and having my own practice allows for real freedom to choose how we work together.

**I have current availability for face to face and online appointments** Feeling stuck, anxious, depressed or lonely in these uncertain times? Challenges with work or study or relationship difficulties? Overthinking everything or perhaps you have issues around food and eating? I can help! Positive changes in your life can take place even when those challenges seem overwhelming and distressing. I offer psychotherapy, nutrition and disordered eating support for individuals. My practice is face to face, online or we can walk together at some great locations in the Greater Manchester area.

Whether you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, I welcome you to get in touch. I offer a calm safe space where together we can find clarity on what has brought you to seek counselling. My authentic, warm and inclusive approach helps to create a non-judgemental environment. My core intention is to help build a supportive therapeutic relationship that promotes clients’ wellbeing and healing. I am an integrative counsellor with a person-centred approach at the core of my therapy. I hope to provide a dedicated time and safe space where we can explore and work through the struggles and challenges you are experiencing.

Hello my name is Sava I graduated within Integrative Transactional Analysis & run a successful private practice within The Manchester Institute for Psychotherapy. Whatever you choose to share will be held completely within a confidential, safe & respected environment. I take a non-judgemental approach when working with my clients, & respect their individuality. I offer a quiet & secure space whilst I accompany you on your journey. I will be there as a support & guide for you throughout the whole process; you will lead the way & choose when to open certain doors, & I will respect your choice when choosing to do so or not.

Do you ever experience feelings of hopelessness and self critical, limiting beliefs and thoughts? Do you experience a lack of energy and reduced motivation? Do you feel held back by worries and panic or feel crippled by spiraling thoughts about what might happen in the future? Maybe you have a specific phobia or fear, restrictive and controlling patterns of eating, obsessive behaviours or urges you feel compelled to complete? Maybe you have a diagnosed neurodevelopmental condition such as Autism, ADHD, learning needs etc and struggling with the impact of this? These are just a few examples of things I can help with.

People access therapy for many different reasons, but generally we are most likely to reach out for help when our usual coping strategies are no longer effective. At these times it is not always helpful to turn to family or friends, as their well-meaning support often fails to make us feel truly understood. As a therapist, I will not be directive in pushing forwards solutions, because I do not claim to know you better than you know yourself. My aim is to provide a safe and authentic relationship, where an exploration of the dynamics between us becomes a significant factor in the effectiveness of the therapy.

Life can be hard, and sometimes the struggle to make sense of your feelings can seem overwhelming. This is ok. You may be at a point in your life when you feel stuck, and unable to move on, and don't know what to do. This is absolutely ok. You may feel that your life could improve and that you could live it more fully. Definitely ok. You may have noticed you keep repeating unhelpful behaviour patterns. This is ok, too.

Although I regularly work with clients of all ages and genders, the majority of my clients tend to be young men, who have unresolved feelings or experiences which are impacting on their daily lives. I work as an integrative counsellor, from a person-centred perspective. This means that you can bring whatever you wish to the session, while we work at your pace and depth. I employ theory and techniques from CBT, psychodynamic and other therapeutic philosophies which I feel may be useful. Where we start is not the important thing as ultimately, you will naturally discover the things that matter the most to you.

So often clients' unhelpful experiences of therapy are attributed to their therapist being "silent", "difficult to connect with" or (at worst) "like a brick wall". The psychologically informed, dedicated and authentic experience I deliver requires me to be active, present and, primarily, something resembling an authentic human being whom I hope you will trust and feel at ease with. You will have the time and space to talk (without awkward silences!) and where desired, I can share with you knowledge/theory acquired from 10 years clinical experience, to help us collaboratively explore, enlighten and enhance your lived experience.

Starting therapy can be a difficult decision- you may feel desperate and alone but reaching out for help is the most important step on the road to recovery. I am a qualified integrative therapist who advocates for celebrating our uniqueness. The base of my sessions is always Person-Centred; to listen, offering compassion and warmth. I also offer stress, anxiety and mindfulness techniques and other therapeutic approaches were appropriate. I have worked extensively with clients suffering from a wide range of issues including trauma, anxiety, and bereavement, and have much experience of working with the LGBTQ+ community