Meet the Therapist: Hayley Doyle

Hayley Doyle is a counsellor in Swansea and online

What attracted you to become a therapist?

I decided to train as an integrative counsellor due to having overcome my own personal struggles over the years. As a result of my own hardships it appeared that I had developed a strong empathetic personality. I was often the person friends and family would turn to when in need and it wasn't long before I discovered that I had a natural talent in this area.

Where did you train?

I trained to BA Hons level at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

Can you tell us about the type of therapy you practise?

I practise as an integrative therapist with a strong person-centred stance at the core.

I agree with the belief that Carl Rogers held in that the client is the expert on them selves and with the right conditions can grow towards self acceptance and away from human suffering. These conditions include empathy, and non-judgemental and genuine attitude. I seek to understand my clients accurately with warmth and full acceptance.

I work in an integrative way so that we may draw on techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy CBT if it fits in with the client's needs. For example, CBT has been found to be helpful for phobias and anxiety.

How does counselling help with symptoms of low self-esteem?

Often when clients arrive at sessions they feel confused, lack in confidence, self-esteem and self-belief, often looking for validation externally. The type of therapy I offer assists my clients so that they may explore why they may not trust their own thoughts and feelings and ultimately start to self explore, which often leads to self-acceptance.

According to theory, it is this self acceptance that is needed for positive change.

What sort of people do you usually see?

I have experience of working with teenagers and adults

What do you like about being a therapist?

I feel honoured and privileged to be let into my clients inner world. Watching my clients grow and become more self aware and more confident and resilient is very rewarding

What is less pleasant?

I find all aspects of the job rewarding. Even the deepest and most difficult of emotions - this is often where the magic of healing begins.

Do you ever suggest books or apps to clients?

Some books I have recommended to clients include I Thought it Was Just Me But it isn_'_t by Brené Brown, Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristen Neff, and The Myth of Normal by Gabor Maté.

What you do for your own mental health?

Exercise, a good diet and enough sleep is essential. Walks in nature, candlelit baths and meditation are other great ways to stay relaxed and focused.

You are a therapist in Swansea. What can you share with us about seeing clients in this area?

I am a therapist in Swansea offering face to face, online and Skype counselling. My consultation room is a quiet, calm and relaxing space.

What do you wish people knew about therapy?

That taking the first step is often the hardest.

What did you learn about yourself in therapy?

That no one else's opinion of me matters, you can't please everyone all of the time and that's OK - those who matter will accept you. The most important thing is that you can fully accept yourself, flaws and all.

Contact Hayley here

Meet more Welldoing therapists