What Is Person-Centred Counselling And How Can It Help?
Starting counselling can feel like a big step. It is common to feel unsure, nervous, or even a little overwhelmed, especially if you do not know what to expect. You might be wondering what counselling is really like, whether you will have to talk about painful memories, or whether it will feel uncomfortable or exposing.
Person-centred counselling offers a gentle, non-judgmental approach. It is based on the belief that you are the expert on your own life, even if things feel unclear or tangled right now. My role as a person-centred counsellor is not to diagnose, direct, or tell you what to do, but to offer a safe, accepting space where you can begin to explore what is going on for you, at your own pace.
A space to be yourself
What drew me to person-centred counselling is the connection that can happen between two people when you are truly allowed to be yourself - without pressure, without judgment, and without the need to hide any part of you.
In our sessions, there is no need to put on a front or pretend everything is fine. You can come exactly as you are, however that may be. I meet you there, gently supporting you as you begin to make sense of what you are feeling or facing.
Many clients arrive with one issue in mind, only to find that something deeper or different begins to emerge. There is no expectation to have all the answers or to follow a set path. You lead the way, and I walk alongside you.
What to expect in a session
In person-centred counselling, you decide what you want to talk about. I will not give advice, assign homework, or push you to speak about anything you are not ready for. It is your time, and it unfolds in a way that feels right for you.
I always take time to explain how confidentiality works and to answer any questions you might have. I understand how vulnerable it can feel to share parts of your life with someone new, and I will do my best to help you feel safe, comfortable, and heard.
Supporting self-esteem and inner trust
Much of my work focuses on helping people rebuild their self-esteem and reconnect with who they truly are. When life has been difficult, whether through trauma, loss, stress, or simply trying to keep up with expectations, it is easy to lose touch with your own needs and sense of self.
Through counselling, we gently explore what matters to you. Together, we can begin to untangle unhelpful beliefs, recognise your needs, and help you trust your own feelings, instincts, and decisions, rather than relying on others' expectations or advice that does not fit.
If you are curious about person-centred counselling or wondering whether it could help you, you are very welcome to get in touch. I offer a free 20-minute phone consultation to answer any questions you may have and to see whether I might be the right fit for you.
