Duncan Long
Integrative psychotherapistAbout Me
Hello! A very warm welcome to you.
As we face these changing and uncertain times on our planet, you may be coming up against challenges that are exacerbating existing internal struggles. It feels more important than ever to find some sense of certainty and purpose in these difficult times. The very idea of having to self-isolate can bring on fear and anxiety; uncertainty around our livelihoods can trigger old and new coping strategies that may feel damaging to one's self.
WHY COME TO THERAPY?
Life is all about relationship in one form or another, how we relate to everything and everybody around us and of course, our relationship with ourselves. You may be struggling in relationships with family, friends, partners, colleagues or maybe your relationship with drugs, alchohol, sex is becoming too conflicted and feels out of control. In therapy we explore the underlying issues and possible trauma, in order to create real and lasting positive change in your life
Therapy is not a "quick fix" or a sticking plaster over a wound, but a space in which we can explore your patterns around self-destructive behaviours. Therapy helps us to develop self-compassion, to quieten our critical mind and to experience a calmer and more peaceful life. It is about learning to accept the very nature of being human. It will be challenging at times, which is where growth lives; you will also have many moments of feeling a deep sense of relief and empowerment. We are looking to build on your self-worth and self-esteem, and to positively change your belief systems so that you feel more engaged with the world around you. Clients frequently present with feelings of loneliness and of not belonging, and we look to gently transform these experiences in to having a greater sense of who you are and your place in the world.
MY APPROACH
I hold a space that is safe, non-judgemental, empathetic and compassionate. Our work together is collaborative with the goal of helping you move forward towards positive change in your life, to gain a clearer sense of self and to have a handle on your mental health.
The therapeutic relationship is paramount to effective therapy, so it is important that you take some time and consideration to find a therapist that feels right for you. It’s hard to know where to start sometimes, I know.
ONLINE COUNSELLING
Working online together can be as effective and transformative as in-person. Some clients prefer to choose online counselling over meeting in person. This way of working can allow for more flexibility with scheduling appointments, making therapy more available for those who are unable to come to my practice in Central London. Some clients tell me that one of the benefits to working online is that they feel more comfortable to disclose virtually than they would face-to-face.
MY EXPERIENCE
My passion to become a therapist developed during my time in therapy, in which I wanted to understand self-destructive behaviours that were impacting on my life. I have been in practice for 8 years, professionally supervised and insured based in Central London.
I have both a wide lived and professional experience, working with addiction, anxiety, childhood abuse, stress, burnout, loneliness, relationship issues and depression. I also work with other gay men with issues around chemsex, sex, sexuality, gender and shame.
NEXT STEPS
I offer a 10 minute phone call at no cost, so that you can ask any questions and get a feel of how it is to work with me. Our initial session together will be an opportunity for you to share with me what you would like to address and from there we can explore how to work together.
If I'm unable to answer your call, please do leave a message and let me know when is a convenient time to call you back, at a time that you feel comfortable with privacy and confidentiality.
Issues often worked with
Types of therapy
Therapy offered
Client groups
Fees
£85 per 50 minute session. Please enquire for details on concessionary rates.
Training and qualifications
PG (Dip) in Psychosynthesis Counselling at the University of East London/Psychosynthesis & Education Trust.
I have been in practice since 2013. Aside from my private practice, I have worked for The Grove Practice and Koan in London. I currently work with Place2Be as a counsellor for children with needs at a primary school in North London
Outside of my private practice I work on health & wellness retreats.
I am registered and accredited by United Kingdom Council of Psychotherapy (UKCP). I am also a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP) and adhere to their Code of Ethics and Good Practice.