Rachel Spence
Relational counsellorAbout Me
I am a Relate trained counsellor experienced at working with both couples and individuals.
I offer a down-to-earth, forward thinking, non-directive approach. I endeavour to create a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship where we can focus on you and your situation. I will work with you to find an understanding of your concerns, your deeper needs and how they are affecting your relationships.
Many people bring past expectations and experiences into their present relationships and this may lead to feelings of being misunderstood, unheard and of loneliness. You might need to find a new balance after a time of crisis, or perhaps rekindle the spark in a good relationship that no longer feels quite right. You might be aware of repeating arguments and a sense of “here we go again” with no resolution, or beginning to see repeating patterns emerge but not be sure how to change. These are just a few of the many reasons people decide to seek counselling.
As an individual or a couple, feeling something is "just a bit off" or dealing with a crisis, this an opportunity to gain insight into yourself and others. Counselling provides a safe environment to discover new perspectives, access inner resources and have the confidence to address change.
I have worked with a wide range of problems including communication difficulties, anxiety, depression, divorce, affairs, self esteem, grief, issues of trust, difficulties with the wider family, cultural differences, and changes in the relationship such as a new baby, illness, retirement and many more. I have worked with clients from the LGBT community and from diverse backgrounds.
Some clients feel “stuck”. Sometimes talking with someone who is not involved in your day to day life, and outside of all work and family relationships gives a freedom to see life from a different perspective and explore other options. Being listened to and feeling heard , exploring relationships with others but also with ourselves can provide a feeling of empowerment and confidence.
Issues often worked with
Types of therapy
Therapy offered
Client groups
Fees
I charge £65 per 50 minute session, paid by bank transfer.
Training and qualifications
I trained with Relate and was privileged to work with a very diverse group of clients. I feel this gave me a invaluable insight into a wide range of different issues, cultures and ways of resolving difference and communicating productively . Before that I trained as a Samaritan and volunteered for 5 years. I have also had life experience of many of the same issues clients bring to counselling.
Qualifications
- Level 5 Diploma in Relationship Counselling
- 5 years experience with the Samaritans
- BA (Hons) languages degree.
I maintain significant Continuing Professional Development (CPD) including recent courses in Eating Disorders, Suicide / Self-Harm, Aspergers, Solution-focused Therapy, Transactional Analysis, and Narrative Therapy.