Counselling can free you from the effects of an abusive relationship and help you build trust and self-esteem
If you have experienced (or a survivor of) domestic abuse, including being exposed to abuse and violence in your childhood or teenage years, I can be there for you in a nurturing way.
Leaving or ending an abusive relationship can take real strength and resourcefulness - even if it doesn't feel like that, yet the effects of that relationship may remain with you today.
The effects of an abusive relationship can be wide-ranging, yet you may recognise some of the following:
Whatever you are feeling and experiencing, it matters.
I have personal insight and professional knowledge of domestic abuse, and I'm committed to creating and providing an environment where you feel safe, accepted, valued and understood.
In counselling sessions, you can be yourself, and explore and reflect at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
I can work creatively using therapeutic art and or writing - sometimes, it's hard to put thoughts and feelings into spoken words. You may prefer to express yourself in this way or wish to try out these mediums.
I am also familiar with practices such as meditation and mindfulness, and I can support you if you wish to try out or develop this practice for yourself.
Healing can take time. You may find it challenging to be patient with yourself and trust in your inner resources, yet please know that you can heal and move forward and establish healthy relationships in the future.
Are you experiencing abuse in your relationship, or do you think you might be?
Domestic abuse takes many forms - being controlled, isolated, threatened, experiences of emotional, physical, sexual, financial, online abuse.
Sadly, a high number of people experience domestic abuse in their lifetime - by a partner, parent, or other family members.
If you're experiencing abuse in a relationship, you may find it difficult to acknowledge what is happening, feel unable to confide in others, feel overwhelmed with stress, fear or anxiety or continually 'on edge'.
As a person-centred counsellor, I trust that only you can know what is right for you, and while I will always have your best interests at heart, I won't make decisions for you or tell you what to do.
In my experience, people choose to end an abusive relationship when they feel ready to do so, and the time feels right.
What I can provide, and is often helpful, is an environment where you feel supported rather than judged, and can safely explore how things are for you and make choices and changes if you wish.
Abuse can be difficult to recognise, though, and especially when there's no physical violence in the relationship. I can help you explore and gain perspective on what's happening - if this is something that might be helpful for you.
If it's not the right time for counselling or it isn't possible at the moment, please know that you can contact one of the organisations below for confidential support and advice.
Women's Aid
T: 0808 2000 247 (24 hours)
www.womensaid.org.uk.
Men's Advice Line
T: 0808 801 0327
www.mensadviceline.org.uk.
Galop: The LGBT and Anti-Violence Charity
T: 0800 999 5428
www.galop.org.uk.
Please hold onto the fact that no one has a right to abuse you - no matter who they are, and you are not responsible or to blame for the abuse.
You can contact me to book an introductory session or to ask any questions you may have
I can provide online or phone sessions through Zoom, Facetime or Skype, or see you at my private practice in Eastleigh, which is easy to get to from Winchester and Southampton.
If you feel that counselling with me might benefit you, please get in touch to arrange an introductory session. I'm also happy to answer any questions you may have. You can call 07729 193629 or submit the contact form on this website.
