Open Change

How will a Counsellor help me?

Anxiety, panic and related conditions or disorders are stress based in nature and can cause a lot of suffering. As a trained counsellor I can help de-mystify anxiety to give you a deep understanding of what it is and how anxiety driven stress impacts our thoughts, emotions and generates physical symptoms.

Stress can develop over a long period of time without us really noticing, so when people first experience anxiety of panic it can be a bewildering and at times scary experience. This is why I offer counselling sessions in a calm and neutral environment where we can talk through your experience, potential anxiety triggers for you and ways to manage and recover from it.

I have helped people with:

• Workplace stress and anxiety


• Gain awareness of common anxiety or stress triggers


• Overthinking


• Social phobias


• Panic attacks


• Obsessive thoughts and rumination


• Intrusive thoughts


• Managing physical symptoms of anxiety such as shortness of breath, flushing, racing heart, sweating and tension to name a few


• Build a foundation of inner confidence

What can I expect from a Counselling session?

Before I book a consultation, I ask to speak briefly with each client over the phone to get a general understanding of what support you are looking for and any expectations or questions you may have. If you feel comfortable we will then book in an appointment at a time convenient for you.

During the first session I will ask you some more questions to get additional background information and better understand your situation. I will also give you a more detailed overview of my approach to counselling in reference to your specific goals or needs. We always work at a pace and in a direction that is comfortable for you and I always set aside time in the first session to cover any pressing concerns or questions you may have. Before the conclusion of each session clients often find it useful to put together some positive next steps and agree how you would like to work with me moving forward.

How often should I see a Counsellor?

Only as long as you feel you are getting benefit or making progress. Depending on your life situations including work, personal relationships, available support and even financial circumstances, everyone is different and will have different needs from a counsellor. My aim is to help you move forward and overcome any difficulties you are experiencing, such as anxiety and stress.

Once this is achieved many clients conclude their sessions, while other come back to check in everyone now and then. Some also find that their initial concern may lead to making further positive changes in their lives in regard to career or relationships for example, so may request further support with these areas of their lives.

Qualifications

MSc Psychology - University of East London

Trained Counsellor for www.nopanic.org.uk

Bachelor of Business – Swinburne University, Melbourne

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Programme

Coaching for Excellence, CBA RTO

Foundations in Business Management (Diploma), CBA RTO