Welcome to my profile.

I’m Kevin and I am a qualified BA (Hons) integrative counsellor.

How therapy can help.

When our fears and worries start to dominate us, it can lead us to feel increased levels of stress and anxiety, making it difficult for us to manage our emotional well-being in our day-to-day lives. In these moments, therapy can offer a safe non-judgemental space to explore these feelings and emotions, not only helping us to navigate our current challenges, build resilience, and develop healthier coping strategies but also equipping us with the tools and confidence needed to face future difficulties with greater ease and assurance. Therapy offers the chance to take a look at the root causes of our distress, fostering personal growth and healing.

What a first session may look like.

I completely understand how coming to see a counsellor for the first time could be scary. Sharing your experiences with someone who is a complete stranger can feel particularly unsettling. I want to reassure you that there is nothing to be fearful about.

The first session is all about getting to know each other a little better, to give me an understanding of the issues that may be troubling you to ensure that I am the “right fit” for you, and to find out if you will feel comfortable working with me. I will ask what you would like to achieve from therapy and together we can set some objectives that we can review regularly during our time together. These sessions are all about you, to allow you to discuss whatever you like completely confidentially within a safe environment. If you decide you are happy to work with me, I will forward a copy of my client contract, which explains my terms and conditions, for you to review and return to me when signed. 

My Practice.

I offer a safe supportive space where we can work together to explore and understand your experiences. My approach can integrate a mix of techniques that includes but is not limited to Person-Centred (Humanistic) Therapy, Psychoanalytic Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), Gestalt Therapy, Attachment Theory, Transactional Analysis and Creative Expression. For example, we might explore how early childhood relationships affect how we connect with people now or how different aspects of our personality can play a role in how we interact and communicate with others. Together, we’ll work on becoming more aware of patterns that can hold us back, so that you can feel more connected and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships with yourself and others. I am experienced in working with clients on a range of issues including anxiety, depression, loss and bereavement, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, and suicidal ideation.

At the heart of my practice is the belief that meaningful human connection is the catalyst for real change. I see the therapeutic connection between client and counsellor as the foundation where growth and healing can take place. The relationship, while collaborative, is always driven by and tailored to what my client needs at the time and is built upon trust, openness, honesty, and relationship. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental, space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and emotions as you are the expert of your lived experiences. Sessions are always led by you, the client, and I will work at your pace. I may challenge where appropriate as this may allow exploration of different or new perspectives. As a counsellor, I will not offer advice or opinions, or provide answers to your problems, but I will be there to help and support you to find your way forward. By working collaboratively, I aim to help you enhance self-awareness, and cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself, your experiences and behaviours in order to lead an emotionally fulfilling life.

Where I practice.

My practice room is based at Acorn House, 8a Looms Lane, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1HE. It is the first building on the left as you approach from Northgate Street. The room is on the ground floor and is wheelchair accessible. There are parking meters available on Looms Lane and additional car parks all within easy walking distance in Lower Baxter Street, Angel Hill and Ram Meadow.

How long will we work together?

I offer flexible options to access therapy, such as face-to-face, online, and phone. I can provide both short-term and long-term sessions. The length of time we may work together will depend on what you feel you need. You may find that you only need a few sessions to get help with a specific issue or longer term for more complex issues. Short term work tends to be around 6-8 sessions, however, we can discuss available options together as you are in control of your counselling sessions.

Ethical Standards.

I am an individual member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and adhere to their ethical framework and guidelines. As a condition of my membership, I am required to undertake regular training to ensure my knowledge is up to date. I am also required to undertake monthly clinical supervision sessions, where I am able to confidentially discuss my client work, seek advice, and best practice to ensure that I am working ethically and in my clients best interests as their wellbeing is my highest priority.