I am Joanne from Free to Be Me Counselling. I offer telephone or online counselling in areas such as bereavement, anxiety & depression. My aim is to make you feel comfortable immediately and communicate clearly & honestly, supporting you throughout. I have worked with clients across a variety of concerns but with a particular focus on bereavement/grief, anxiety and depression. I tailor my approach to fit each individual and the concerns they are seeking to address.
About me and my practice
How I work with Grief
I will provide an open, supportive environment giving you the opportunity to honestly discuss your thoughts, fears and concerns without fear of being judged or feeling like a burden or upsetting anyone around you. I can help you navigate the difficult emotions associated with loss.
How I work with Anxiety
I work in a collaborative way, helping you to gain insight, understand your triggers, overcome challenges and achieve personal goals. This will all be done at a pace that suits you in a warm, supportive environment. I may challenge you from time to time but this will be done gently, when it is appropriate and always with your consent.
How I work with Depression
I can help you to gain increased self-awareness, understand the causes and why you think, feel and act the way you do. I can offer support and techniques to alleviate your symptoms, empowering you to build confidence, resilience and reach your full potential.
Experience
Before qualifying as a Counsellor I worked across a variety of sectors including law, education, social care and the finance industry.
I have always worked in customer facing roles and love that 1-1 interaction.
I worked with the Samaritans as a listening volunteer, supporting people on the helpline and through email. I worked with Cruse as a Bereavement Support Volunteer offering 1-1 support online and by telephone.
Clients have told me that I have a calm, reassuring manner and that I am able to put people at ease quickly. I pride myself on being able to listen, offer empathy, acceptance and treat people with compassion and kindness. I am adaptable and always try to be flexible to accommodate clients' needs.
Qualifications
Qualifications:
Post Graduate Certificate in Contemporary Relationship Studies
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
Online & Telephone Counselling (80 hour CPD)
Level 3 Counselling Skills Certificate
Level 2 Counselling Introduction
Level 2 Certificate in Self-harm Awareness & Suicide Prevention
Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems
Cruse Bereavement Foundation Training (Adults)
Please note I am not trained to work with children and young people or to undertake couples therapy.
Additional Information
I offer a free 15 minute telephone consultation to answer any questions you may have and to help you decide if I am the right counsellor for you.
Professional Membership
Registered Member MBACP
Professional Register
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Verified by Counsellingo on Thursday, 31 October 2024
Initial Consultation
What happens in a session?
Our first session will be an assessment where I will ask you to provide some background information, history and an idea of what you would like to work through in sessions. If you have any particular goals I will note these and always work with them in mind.
I can offer short-term or open-ended sessions depending on your requirements and the issues you wish to explore. I will be transparent throughout, explaining how I work, what to expect and answering any questions you have about the process.
I work online or by telephone, it is up to you which one suits you best. If you are unsure just ask.
Sessions will vary and I tailor my approach to each individual client. You might just want an open forum to talk or you might be seeking a technique, tool or coping strategy. I will build regular reviews into our work to ensure things are progressing as you would expect.
Fees
£45 per session.
When I Work
Evening appointments available. I can also offer early morning appointments.
I can accommodate fortnightly appointments provided you are able to be flexible with days/times.
Therapeutic Approach
Humanistic, Integrative
Video Platforms
Teams
Pronouns
She/Her
Area
West Yorkshire
