About me
Nancy Stephenson mBACP
I am a client-led, integrative counsellor. My main approach is person-centered, or humanistic counselling, in which the core conditions of empathy, unconditional positive regard and congruence are considered key and you are appreciated as the expert in your own life. I integrate aspects of various approaches in sessions, depending on what I feel best suits my client.
I also use techniques from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and creative tools such as visualisation, drawing, breathwork, letter writing and natural props such as pebbles and shells to explore self-image and relationships where appropriate.
Like many of my colleagues, I retrained as a counsellor later in life, bringing with me lived experience of both some of life's challenges and the benefits of counselling.
I see clients who are struggling with, amongst other things
Anxiety
Stress
Depression
Bullying
Problems at work or school
Separation and divorce
Body image
Relationships
Low self esteem
Bereavement
Self-harm
Feelings around ageing
Family breakup
Identity and sexuality
Anger issues
Substance misuse
Professional Standards
I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (bacp). The bacp is the professional association for members of the counselling profession in the UK and sets standards relating to personal values, counselling training, professional development and supervision. All registered counsellors are required to meet with a supervisor on a regular basis.
Supervision gives counsellors our own safe and confidential space to which we can bring any questions and concerns relating to our work, ensuring we offer the best possible support to those we counsel. An important part of counselling training is to undertake personal therapy with a registered counsellor. This ensures that trainee counsellors address any issues they may be facing, and also experience the counselling process from a client's perspective.
My bacp profile is available on the bacp website, along with lots of other really helpful counselling information and resources.