Individual Therapy

We believe passionately in what we do and the aims of therapy to enable clients to explore their difficulties and problems in a safe non-judgemental environment, where they will feel accepted, held, listened to, heard and understood.  We believe that therapy is not about solving problems or making them go away; it is more about having a clearer understanding of oneself and a better way of dealing with the challenges life invariable throws at us. Our aim, as Person-Centred counsellors is to travel alongside our clients, not to change them or rescue them from the distress that overwhelms them. Instead we will provide the space to explore, challenge and clarify those feelings and behavioursthat may be hindering their goals.

Typical issues that clients may present with:
Anger management, anxiety, bereavement/grief/loss, depression, eating disorders and other forms of addictions, domestic violence, emotional or psychological difficulties, employment problems, mental health issues, sexual/physical/emotional abuse, self-esteem..

What can I expect as a client?

After an initial enquiry by telephone or email, we will endeavour to get back to you within 24 hours to make an initial appointment. We use counselling rooms in Stratford, Warwick and Kenilworth, so will arrange to meet with you at one of these venues at a mutually convenient time. The initial appointment is free and will allow the counsellor to find out a bit more about you and what difficulties you may be experiencing. She will ask you some questions and, at the end of the session, you will both have a chance to decide whether you want to continue working together to form a counselling relationship. If the counsellor or the client decides that they cannot proceed with counselling, the counsellor may offer the client information about other organisations which may be helpful. If the client does decide to undertake counselling, a further session is booked at a cost between £35 and £45 per hour. At this point, a simple written agreement or contract is given to the client and signed by both parties; this ensures that the client is fully aware of the expectations of the counselling partnership. A sample contract may be viewed here.

The counsellor and client will then proceed to work together over a number of sessions, typically 6 weeks to 6 months. The counselling sessions  will usually be at the same time and same day every week. But most importantly, at the end of every session, it is the client who decides whether to book another session.

What does the counsellor do to ensure my needs are met?

The counselling relationship is a very particular working alliance and will often involve the client facing difficult thoughts and feelings. It is important that the client feels safe and that trust develops between client and counsellor. The counsellor will ensure that confidentiality is maintained throughout the sessions and will receive regular supervision from a trained clinical supervisor. Both Ruth Lyne and Stephanie Hershon are members of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists and are bound by that institution's Code of Ethics. Each counsellor has also undertaken a commitment to further their professional development and to work towards either accreditation or maintenance of accreditation of the aforementioned professional body. Both counsellors are CRB checked.