About Me
Before embarking on my counselling career, I gained valuable experience working in a government department. This opportunity allowed me to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, providing me with a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of the world we live in.
My passion for counselling was ignited during my time as a volunteer at Samaritans. It was a profoundly fulfilling experience to offer support to individuals at their lowest ebb. This involvement taught me the significance of active listening and empathetically stepping into others’ shoes. In my opinion, these qualities form the foundation of being an effective counsellor.
By combining my professional background with my personal experiences, I bring a unique blend of real-world understanding and compassionate support to my counselling practice. I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples from all walks of life.
How I Work
My priority will be to put you at ease and go at a pace that you find comfortable. I will focus on your needs and work collaboratively to make the therapy bespoke for you.
I do not want you to feel that you are talking to a mirror though. I will play an active role in the therapy, offering my thoughts and suggestions where appropriate. Sometimes, I may wish to gently challenge, but always in a supportive and respectful way.
As an integrative counsellor I can offer a range of approaches to support you. For example, you may want to understand how childhood experiences have made you the person you are today or perhaps your focus is more upon dealing with a challenge in the here and now. Alternatively, you may be looking to find meaning in your life or understand your future direction. As well as talking through your challenges, I can also offer practical tools and techniques where appropriate such as how to help change unhelpful and irrational thought patterns or introduce relaxation exercises into your routine.
Couples Counselling
I provide more information regarding how I work with Couples here
Andrew Allan
Qualifications
Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
Advanced Diploma in Couples Therapy
Diploma in Compulsive Sexual Behaviour
Diploma in Counselling Skills and Theory
Certificate in Psychosexual Therapy
Certificate in Couple and Relationship Therapy
Sessions Duration
Therapy can last any time from a few sessions to a number of months or even years. Much depends on you as an individual or couple and what your goals are. We will discuss this during the introductory session and review progress as regular intervals throughout.
Session Cost
Fees: £60-£70 per hour for individuals and £70-£80 for couples.
I also hold a small number of concessionary spaces.
