Getting in touch is often the hardest part. If you're considering counselling, you've already taken an important step. Let me explain how I work and what you can expect.
Before we start working together, I offer a free 10-minute introductory call. This gives us both a chance to talk about what's brought you to counselling, ask any questions you have, and see if we're a good fit. There's no pressure or obligation. It's simply a conversation to help you decide if I'm the right counsellor for you.
I'm an integrative counsellor, which means I draw from different therapeutic approaches depending on what suits you best. Here's what that looks like in practice.
This is the foundation of how I work. You're the expert on your own life, and my job is to listen without judgement and help you explore what's troubling you. I won't tell you what to do or push you in any direction. Instead, I create the space for you to find your own answers at your own pace.
Sometimes our current struggles connect to past experiences or patterns we're not fully aware of. This approach helps us explore those connections and understand why you might respond to situations in certain ways. It's about gaining insight that can change how you move forward.
CBT is practical and focused on the here and now. It looks at the link between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. I might teach you specific techniques to manage anxiety, challenge unhelpful thinking, or change patterns that aren't working. Many people find this useful for short-term goals.
This approach looks at how you communicate and relate to others, and to yourself. We all have different 'parts' that show up in different situations. TA helps you understand these patterns and how they affect your relationships. It's particularly useful if you keep finding yourself in similar conflicts or feeling stuck in certain roles. Once you see these patterns, you have more choice about how to respond.
I offer counselling both face-to-face and online, so you can choose what works best for you. In-person sessions take place at my therapy room in Hertford town centre, within walking distance of both of Hertford’s train stations. It's a private, comfortable space on the second floor. Online sessions work just as well and give you flexibility to access counselling from home or wherever suits you. We'll use a secure video platform, and you just need a quiet space with a decent internet connection. Sessions are 50 minutes, whether in-person or online.
I work with adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties. Common reasons people seek counselling include anxiety, depression, self-esteem and confidence issues. Many clients come because of relationship problems, whether with partners, family, friends, or colleagues. I have experience supporting people with work-related pressures, burnout, or career uncertainty too.
I also support people exploring their sexual identity or sexuality, recovering from bullying, or simply feeling stuck and unsure of their direction. Some clients have specific goals they want to work towards. Others need space to talk without knowing exactly what they're looking for yet.
If you'd like to find out more or arrange your introductory call, get in touch. I respond to all enquiries within one business day.
© Stuart Edwards Counselling
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