Counselling in Northern Ireland

If you are in the process of considering counselling/psychotherapy then finding the right therapist is the most important decision to make. Research shows positive therapeutic outcomes are based on the relationship between therapist and client. A good way of assessing if we can work well together is attending a free of charge session; no commitment beyond this, to see if I can help you to identify further what your needs are.

I have experience working with clients with various issues, I particularly enjoy working with clients experiencing difficulties with self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, trauma and relationship issues. I have found great satisfaction working with men's issues and sexuality I have lots of experience working with men and women in their late teens to early 40s. Clients are normally nervous coming to counselling and I endeavour to create a non-judmental and relaxed environment for you to explore your issues and find solutions that suit you and your lifestyle best.

I offer a professional, warm and confidential counselling service to help people resolve their issues, enabling them to live a healthier and satisfying life without anxiety. I have experience working in different Health Trusts with adults and young people who are experiencing Anxiety/Depression through issues such as work-related stress, bullying in the workplace/school, low self -esteem/confidence, social anxiety, relationship difficulties, abuse through neglect, physical, sexual, or financial, grief with loss/bereavement, addictions and trauma. (Please call for a brief chat to see if I am the right counsellor for you.)

Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I am registered and accredited with BACP and offer an opportunity for you to explore and address the issues that have brought you to counselling. My hope is that you will acquire a deeper understanding of yourself and others as a result and discover a greater capacity for making choices in your life. My approach to counselling is an integrative one - it is based primarily on a Person-Centred Approach, but also incorporates principles and techniques from other theoretical perspectives, where appropriate, in order to best address your individual needs.

I believe it is impossible to "have the ideal Client", as my experience has shown me we really don't know where the story is going until you build up the connection and confidence between you and your client. I always focus on making the clients feel that they are in a safe place and that this place is for them. It is also important that the client and I are open and honest with each other, in order to avoid any misunderstanding between you and the client with regards to their needs and the best course of therapy that is required. I have found that the more ownership and input the client has during the sessions the better outcome,

Do you feel depressed, overwhelmed, anxious or stuck regarding how things change? I love working with people and offering space, expertise and empathy to find clarity in a moment when everything seems out of control or overwhelming. At your pace, we explore how you currently feel and begin to understand and make sense of your current experience. With knowledge of your past & in becoming aware of how current thoughts, emotions and behaviour interact and how difficulties are maintained, we'll uncover what needs to change. I then hope to empower and give you the confidence and method to make these changes.

I am a professional qualified counsellor centred in Portadown, Craigavon and Armagh (ABC) area. My goal is to provide clients with a safe environment. I work with a range of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, stress, social anxiety, trauma, working with anger issues, panic disorder, low self-esteem, low self confidence and suicidal ideation. I also specialise in working with clients with Epilepsy, from my own personal experience of living with epilepsy within the family I can help you find ways to apply coping strategies, develop self awareness and set goals for your future.

I offer a safe space to talk about anything which may be of concern in your life, which we can then explore at your own pace, to make sense of things, resolve difficult feelings and make positive change. It can sometimes be difficult to talk to family and friends, and having someone to listen without judgement can make all the difference. Counselling can help us to understand how the past has affected our present life and relationships, helping us to connect to who we really are and to be happier as our true self, which is our human birthright. Counselling can also enable a secure attachment which can help to heal past wounds.

My approach is informed by using the evidence base, integrating multiple therapeutic models and your own preferences and expertise. Based on the information you provide we will devise a collaborative psychological understanding of your difficulties and a goal focused treatment plan to help you move forward in your life. Most people could benefit from a safe and reliable space to talk and feel seen and heard no matter what difficulties you are facing.

Have you wanted to change things in your life but don't know where to start? Do you have difficulty dealing with your thoughts? Do you feel shame or guilt often? Are you self- critical? I work with people to support and empower them to understand what's going on for them, identifying what may help them to enjoy life again. For some that may be gaining self-confidence, feeling less stressed/anxious/stuck or simply better sleep . Counselling can feel scary but can be the first important step in investing in yourself. I will move at your pace, offering a non-judgemental, calm, kind space for you to explore what's challenging you.

I am a BACP accredited therapist, BA (1:1), MA (1:1), MA (1:1) with 7 years' experience. My specialism is in trauma-focused therapy. This is a very specific model of working that requires care and competence. I aim to help you feel relaxed, safe, and assured that your issues will be treated with respect, gentleness and professionalism. I offer evidence-based interventions to suit your presentation and preference. At its best, therapy is focused and productive without being overwhelming or coercive. I am pleased to now offer post-cult and spiritual abuse counselling, having recently completed training in this area.

I’m an experienced therapist, fully accredited with BACP and work with adults, young people and children. I've worked in the private sector, education and community settings covering a wide age range. I also work with private agencies, Employment Assistance Providers and insurance providers. I have a special interest working with teens.

Courage to change is often like taking a deep breath, making a decision and reaching out. I help clients feel safe and relaxed, I reassure they can discuss at their pace anything with no pressure to do so. I help clients understand mental health as part of normal experience through the latest evidence skills based approach. The solution focused framework will allow you the space to talk through and understand your situation better, identify unmet emotional needs and activate your own natural resources, working through past experiences, overcoming them and focusing with clarity on a happier future with a new outlook.

We are all experiencing anxiety in the world at this time, as we face the uncertainty of a pandemic and attempt to adapt to, and recover some semblance of ‘normal’. Perhaps you face some difficult historical issues or struggle to cope with the challenges of a life transition? Whatever your needs, help is at hand. I offer a safe, contained space, with a professional, relational approach, so that together, we can creatively explore presenting issues & find a meaningful way to navigate change. The shared goal is for my clients to re-emerge with renewed courage & strength, to get back to living their life with meaning & purpose.

KGH Counselling "Because talking is important" Life can be a journey and at times challenging when our feelings and thoughts can be overwhelming and confusing. Let me go on your journey with you.

If you are interested in counselling feel free to contact me for a free 20 min consultation. I am a Chartered Psychologist with The Psychological Society of Ireland. I am also accredited with the BACP. I have 25 years experience of working in a wide range of settings including the statutory, voluntary & private sector. My experience includes: 5 years specialising within the mental health field including acute psychiatry and community mental health, 6 years specialising in counselling survivors of abuse including clerical abuse, 5 years specialising in University counselling and 3 years specialising in post primary counselling.