Gemma Grainger

My sessions are open to anyone who feels that they might need someone to listen, even just for a few hours - no problem or feeling is unimportant.   ​ Therapy shouldn’t be something that is scary, it is not a luxury and it should be accessible. The key to counselling and psychotherapy is that it is a space that is your own; one that is empathic, safe and non-judgemental. I will listen to you. ​ The Goal​ Being a human is a complex and difficult task. We are all full of conflicting thoughts, feelings and actions at the best of times and when something happens in life - it can be big or small - but it can throw us even further into confusion or feelings we might not be able to put our finger on. ​ I am a qualified psychotherapist and a fellow human being, and I offer a safe place for you to come and talk things through, or just be. Together we can work towards making the trials of life a bit easier for you.   Therapy for Me​ My Therapy Beliefs and My Training The therapy I provide is collaborative and dynamic. The training I received from University of East London was based on an integrative approach, meaning that it did not focus on one style or technique, it combined all modalities. This means that my understanding of psychotherapy is flexible and broad. Every person is an individual who responds and works better in certain ways, and so my task is to find the style which works best for us both together based on your individuality.   What is my therapeutic style and how did I find it- My style leans towards a person-centred/humanistic approach, which puts you, the client in the focus. Unlike other psychodynamic therapists, I don't focus as strongly on childhood. However, I tend to find from experience that the past often has an impact on the here and now, so I do value its importance. Likewise, although I do not usually practice CBT, I recognise the value in coping mechanisms and so if this is for you I will try and accommodate for some solution-focussed direction.   The key to my style is listening to what you want and need from therapy, and we go from there.   What are my key areas of work- Who can benefit- My belief is that everyone deserves therapy. Sitting with the focus on you for 50 minutes can often feel like an indulgence, and out of the ordinary. Every person deserves this time, whatever has/is/might happen. Focusing on what is troubling you right now can be very difficult and without a safe space to explore, things can heighten and be left unresolved.Anyone can have counselling.       The counselling hour is 50 minutes.   ​   I really welcome you to email me any inquiries, whatever your need.