Meet the Therapist: Jeanette Lester

Jun 19, 2020

meetthetherapist

Jeanette Lester is a therapist in Sevenoaks, Kent and online

What attracted you to become a therapist?

I have always had an interest in counselling and was often approached by friends and family for support. When I was made redundant a few years ago, aged 50, I decided this was the time to seize the opportunity and train to become a therapist. It was the best decision I have made and have thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

Where did you train?

I trained with Chrysalis, where I completed an Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling. I recently completed the Level 4 CPCAB certificate, Counselling Children and Young People with the charity Place2Be.

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

I use an integrative approach based on CBT, person-centred, and solution-focused therapy. I combine these approaches according to the client’s needs, believing no two people or issue can be solved with one process. I work from the premise that our early experiences have a big influence on who we are today.

How does integrative therapy help with symptoms of anxiety?

As an integrative therapist, I use a range of modalities to help to really understand the clients and their therapeutic goals. For clients experiencing anxiety, CBT helps the client to identify and change thinking and behaviour patterns that cause distress. Engaging in CBT can help people reduce stress, cope with complicated relationships, deal with grief, and face many other life challenges.

What sort of people do you usually see?

Many of my clients are young people and children, I do however see adults also.

What do you like about being a therapist?

Empowering the clients and supporting the client through their journey.

I enjoy the work and seeing someone grow. It is a privilege to be involved in their journey of growth.

What is less pleasant?

For many clients change can be challenging and frustrating at times but it's worth it in the end.

How long you’ve been with welldoing.org and what you think of us?

I have been with welldoing.org for seven months. I find the site very informative and helpful with my practise.

Do you ever suggest books or apps to clients?

It really depends on the client. I may suggest things which are easy to read or even watch a helpful you tube channel, mindfulness, and relaxation apps.

What you do for your own mental health?

I see a counsellor myself; I chose to do that as part of keeping myself mentally healthy. I keep fit – classes and the gym are part of my self-care

You are a therapist in Kent and surrounding areas. What can you share with us about seeing clients in that area?

I am based in Sevenoaks, Kent, a 15-minute walk from the train station. Due to Covid-19, sessions are currently conducted online via Zoom, Skype, telephone etc. This enables me to reach a larger audience as many people are home at the moment.