I would describe myself as an intuitive and empathetic therapist, adapting sessions/intervention’s with your needs central to our work. I am an active listener and work alongside you to further your own understanding, enhance self healing, increase resilience and tools, encourage positive change and work towards realistic goals.
Training & Experience
I initially trained in Person Centred/Humanistic Counselling. Throughout my career I have incorporated other training and lived experience into my work. I use a variety of interventions/skills, toolset, therefore each piece of work and every session will be as unique as you are. I am trauma trained and therefore offer a trauma informed practice.
I am also a parent-carer of a neurodiverse child, as such can bring to sessions an awareness and understanding of the complexities, challenges, difficulties faced by individuals and families.
Who attends Counselling?
Clients choose to attend counselling sessions for many different reasons; such as when feeling distressed, to discuss a work or personal issue, health problems
, relationship difficulties or personal development. Counselling is also beneficial when you are feeling low or anxious and can’t explain the reason why.
Whatever your reasons may be for attending counselling you will be listened to, respected and not judged.
Reasons client’s seek counselling include;
- a safe place to talk, be listened to and offload
- aiding positive changes in behaviour or thoughts
- support during a specific life event or challenge
- awareness of self and others
- to discuss difficult feelings and emotions
- a loss or bereavement (e.g. person, relationship, job)
“The gentle and sensitive companionship of an empathic stance… provides illumination and healing. In such situations deep understanding is, I believe, the most precious gift one can give another.” Carl Rogers
Testimonials
Dr Stewart Richmond – York University (on behalf of the ACUDep research team)
“We were pleased to include Julie as a counsellor supporting the ACUDep study in the Darlington area. ACUDep is a large randomised controlled trial that aims to compare the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of acupuncture and counselling for people with moderate to severe depression. Julie made a positive contribution to the research study and her input was valued by research participants. She was both pleasant natured and reliable to work with. Under similar circumstances we would be happy to refer patients to her again.”
David Walker – Former Team Manager, Darlington Schools Counselling Service.
“Julie provided an absolutely invaluable service to children, young people and carers through her work with the Darlington Schools Counselling Service. Julie was particularly noted for the professional relationships she managed to forge and the effectiveness of the work which these facilitated. At all times Julie practices in an ethical, systematic and sensitive way and I would have no hesitation in whole-heartedly recommending her to anyone seeking counselling or therapy.”
Client Feedback
“I visited Julie to seek counselling, having become progressively unhappy with some of my behaviour over the last few years. Though I was new to counselling and somewhat anxious about seeking help, I felt immediately comfortable with Julie, who was approachable and gave me the space to speak freely and without judgement. I was able to reflect and explore my thoughts and feelings at my own pace. Julie offered input and direction where appropriate, helping steer me towards a position of clarity. She treated me like an individual, taking a genuine interest to understand me as a person and considering the best ways forward. My counselling with Julie helped create a position effect on my behaviours that I am now building on. I am more self-aware, compassionate towards myself and mindful in daily life. I’m greatful for her support and would recommend Julie without hesitation”