Thinking of having Counselling or Psychotherapy?
- Is there a job you want but just can’t apply?
- Are you feeling worried about what people think of you?
- Are you in a relationship that isn’t going to well and you are unhappy?
- Do things that have happened in the past get in the way of how you are now?
I believe it is very important for us to develop a trusting working relationship. My style is warm and welcoming, and I’ll be interested in how you see the world. Together we can look at both the past and present to see how your experiences have an effect on you right now. I will engage in our discussions, rather than only being quiet. I am interested to provide a safe space for you to share your feelings. I work in an open-ended way, which means I don’t limit the number of sessions, we would work together to see what it is you need.
If you'd like to know more about me and the way I work read on.
About Me
My name is Janet Brandling.
My principle philosophy is that we are all essentially people trying to making our way in the world with good intent. When working with people who are struggling, in crisis or distress (acute or chronic) I prefer to think "what happened to you and how is this affecting you" rather than "what is wrong with you". This leads us to your story, your strengths and your ways to survive.
My general philosophy is 'trauma informed' and holistic. This means I am able to work with a wide variety of people and like to consider the whole person, including their emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing. I like to develop a good working relationship with clients and work in an open-ended way. This means I do not prescribe a set number of sessions. We always work together to see how long the therapy should last. I believe it is through developing a therapy relationship, where safety, confidentiality and trust are paramount that good therapeutic work can be done. I have particular interests in ongoing health conditions such as depression and anxiety, postnatal depression, chronic conditions and pain, unresolved trauma and relationship challenges. However sometimes people aren't sure what they want from life, therapy included, they just want to see if they can work it out by talking to someone outside their social circle. I welcome the 'not knowing', the sadness and the vulnerability. It is being with someone who really hears our thoughts, needs and troubles that we are able to work our way through distress and find some peace.
My background
My roots are in health. My first training was as a registered general nurse. Later I studied psychology and became an assistant psychologist in a mental health organisation. More recently I have been conducting health research and evaluation and also supporting health professionals to carry out their own research. Out of personal interest I have studied bodywork and lay herbalism. I have an interest in groups, particularly women’s circle. Previously I have run a postnatal support group, for women who have identified as having postnatal depression. This broad history gives me a holistic and broad understanding of how people manage their own health and wellbeing.
Now I am a qualified Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I have completed a Masters degree in Integrative Psychotherapy at the Metanoia Institute. As well as my private practice I work as a supervisor in the charitable sector and have worked in the NHS. I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy and an accredited member of the UK Council for Psychotherapy. I am insured by Balens Insurance.
Appointments
To discuss your needs please get in touch. It is a good idea to arrange an initial appointment. My contact details are shown below.
I offer counselling and psychotherapy in a private therapy room or via video-conferencing appointment***. At an initial appointment we can explore your therapy needs and goals and we can consider how we will be able to work together.
Appointments last 50 mins. I can do longer sessions by arrangement. I have both daytime and evening appointments
Cost £60 per session.
It is completely normal to feel a bit anxious or worried about coming to therapy. I understand this. A good therapist will have had their fair share of therapy too and knows just how that first call or meeting feels. You have made a brave move to look for therapy and it takes a lot of courage to take that step. But it is a step towards real self awareness and wellbeing. Good luck!
*** During exceptional periods (like the lockdowns) I offer online work. Try not to be put off by this as research shows it is effective. We are still able to build a good working relationship using these means and it helps keeps us all safe.