Sometimes life can feel ‘just too much’, you feel like you have reached your capacity, you are emotionally sensitive or feel numb.  You lack clarity in your thoughts and do not know where to turn. Take a deep breath and know that help is at hand. I offer guidance and support in a safe, non-judgemental space, to explore the things on your mind. I work face to face and online, facilitating our sessions, working with you, at your pace, allowing you to tell your story. I will hear your words and see you as a unique individual. I believe in your ability to heal and grow. 

I have a specialist interest and experience of working with people who struggle maintaining healthy relationships and may feel a loss of self-identity.  Clients that I work with lack focus, direction and often feel totally overwhelmed. I work with a broad range of client conditions, anxiety, chronic illness, low self-esteem and trauma.

At the heart of how I work, is the relationship we build together. Over the past 16 years of working in therapeutic private practice, I have seen how positive outcome in therapy comes from forming a strong professional relationship with clients. Mutual trust and respect in our therapeutic relationship is the safe container that will allow us to go where you need to go. From this foundation change is possible.  As an integrative practitioner I draw on many therapeutic styles and techniques to find ways of working that are right for you.

Through my own personal and professional development and working with clients I have witnessed how our mind and body are connected. We experience life cognitively, some of which we process, but often we are left holding residual unprocessed emotions (feelings) in our body. These unprocessed emotions, can build up, resulting in physical discomfort, ailments, and or  challenging behaviour, feelings, and thoughts. We become emotionally disconnected from others but more importantly we can lose touch with ourselves. Recognising this is the first step, the next is finding the courage to ask for help. If this resonates with you please find the strength to get in touch and find out if I am the right therapist for you.

Taking that first step can be daunting. I understand that for some people talking about what brings them to counselling can feel quite scary. It may well be the first time you’ve spoken out loud about what’s on your mind. You may feel resistance. Insecurities may surface. Will they judge me, will they be able to understand? Will they be able to help me?  

Our first full session will be a space for us to get to know one another and for you to get a sense of me and how I work, and if you feel comfortable with me.  We will explore what brings you to therapy, what changes you hope to see and discuss whether my expertise is the right fit for you.  What is most important, is that you feel comfortable and safe speaking to me, and that I feel like the right fit for you.  I may not be, and that is okay.  

To facilitate your search I offer a free initial 30 minute telephone conversation to determine whether I am the right therapist for you. There is no obligation and these and all ongoing sessions are strictly confidential and adhere to the ethical guidelines of the BACP. The first full session will be fifty minutes and I charge my regular fee of £60.00 per session.

All enquiries are treated in confidence. I aim to reply to messages within 24 hours (Mon - Fri). If you would prefer me to call you, please leave your name number and a suitable time to return your call.

I am degree qualified in Intergrative Counselling & Psychotherapy, a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and am fully insured.


Michele Atkin, Tel: 07791 438186. Email: micheleatkintherapies@gmail.com

 

Michele Atkin

Counsellor & Psychotherapist​​​