Hi, I'm Michelle - a BACP and NCPS registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor who believes that what people really need is good listening to! I offer a private support service in Huddersfield town centre, or remotely via video link, depending on your preference. In my homely therapy room, you will never be judged on anything you disclose. You will always be supported and accepted for the individual, unique person you are. I pride myself on being down-to-earth, open-minded, and relatable. My approach is professional, yet friendly and modern; without the daunting, clinical feel that many expect from therapy. And yes - I even have a sense of humour (when appropriate, of course).
Sometimes life feels like an uphill struggle; and no matter how we try to climb, something comes along to drag us down. We try to run away from our problems, but they catch us up. We bottle things up inside, but that can leave us feeling lost. If you're feeling alone with your problems, confused or anxious about something in your life; and want to regain control; then counselling may be part of the solution. Sometimes being able to offload your thoughts onto someone unbiased can be a freeing experience, helping you to see things more clearly. I aim to promote self-awareness and confidence in my clients so that counselling is an empowering experience. It's about taking control of your life; whilst having someone non-judgmental and caring there to help support you through the changes.
I operate my practice with compassion, by viewing you as a person - not a 'patient', and work with a huge range of issues, particularly surrounding Anxiety, Self-esteem, Neurodivergency, and Relationship/Family issues. I am also a GSRD-knowledgeable therapist (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship diversity). I work with clients of any gender, race, and faith. I am an LGBTQ+ friendly, sex-worker and alternative lifestyles allied practitioner. I am former professional member of the Institute of Psychedelic Therapy ( IPT) and BACP's Workplace Division. I am recreational substance aware and offer a safe space for clients to explore and examine their personal experiences (Although I do not offer specialist addiction counselling). I work with clients over eighteen only, on a one-to-one basis. Unfortunately, I do not have the space to counsel couples.
There's no definitive answer to this question. It depends on what issues you're bringing to the sessions and how much you want to work on. I have both long-term and short-term Clients. Some people just like to come for a one-off session. There's no 'One size fits all' approach.
Counselling isn't a magic cure-all or a quick fix. It's a gradual process, but it works, and the benefits and effects can last forever. Once self-awareness is achieved, you can't unlearn that knowledge!
What I have found the most helpful way to gauge how far we are along the counselling process is to review as we go. We 'check in' and discuss what is working well for you; and what areas may still need addressing. Some Clients feel that between six and ten weeks is enough time, and some prefer to continue with therapy for twelve months or longer. It is a personal choice, and the service each client receives is as individual as they are. The important thing is that you can finish whenever you feel ready, with no pressure to continue.
As a general rule, I tell my Clients that when they come to the session and start to wonder what to discuss, that's how they'll know when the therapeutic process is naturally coming to a close. Unless we've already agreed on a date to finish, you'll just know instinctively; and so will I.
What I don't do is continue to see Clients after this point. There's no benefit in you continuing to pay for the service when we've done all the work that we can do together. The aim is for you to end on an emotional high; and leave feeling empowered and ready to tackle any future issues you may have, confidently and independently. After a course therapy has finished, I am usually happy to keep your file open in case you need to check in for the odd session, if you feel you need additional future support.
If a Client becomes reliant on Counselling when they no longer need it, it's counterproductive for us both; and detrimental to the Client's self-esteem. I appreciate that therapy is a luxury that costs both precious time and money, and for this reason, I plan well so that I can work most efficiently for you; whilst going at a pace that's comfortable and manageable for you.
So, that's the long answer - In short, real change has no set time limit or deadline!