Mrs Alison Paul
Member Status: Accredited
Member No: NCS19-08632
Location: Warnham
Our lives are not always as straight-forward as we would like them to be. At times we can be left feeling emotionally and physically exhausted, or confused, or numb, or lonely, or vulnerable, or angry or overwhelmed. We can be going through a crisis, a loss, a feeling of being stuck in memories of past experiences, a feeling of low self-esteem and sometimes we do not know why we don’t feel right, we just know we don’t feel right.
Whatever you might be finding yourself faced with right now, I will help you to discover how to make sense of it. I will do this by working with you, to become aware of your choices, and to rediscover what is possible. In a safe space, I will make the journey with you as you experience your feelings, thoughts and beliefs. I will help to enable you to move on to what is right for you, or to find peace and acceptance in what cannot be changed. I believe by seeking counselling you are taking an important and courageous step in understanding yourself and yourself in the world.
I work relationally, using transactional analysis as a theoretical model; that is we are able to solve problems using our own intuition and full resources which can have been hidden away for a long time, and once rediscovered will flourish, if we let them. Using gestalt therapy we will look at how we define what we truly experience versus what we interpret in ourselves and the world around us, which can become stuck in fixed patterns. Being fully present in the here and now creates the potential for more excitement, energy and courage to live life more freely.
I can offer short-term or longer-term counselling, depending on your needs and wishes. It may be that you do not wish to look too deep but focus on a current issue that is bothering you. Here you will gain some insight to understanding yourself and if and when ready to do so, can return to longer-term therapy if desired.
My own working experience began within the world of business, this now helps me to understand what happens between people in an organisation, and how we may look at fixed patterns there being played out. I went on to have a diverse background in health and social care, and within social care I worked with young people including those with Autistic Spectrum Condition. I am aware of the challenges young people face and, with my experience as a mum too, my approach is down-to-earth.
Having extensively counselled unpaid carers I have become aware that they can often lose who they are as their caring role has taken so much priority; I have helped them rediscover who they are and that they too matter. Counselling within the YMCA environment has furthered my experience of working with young people.
I work with adults of all ages and young people from the age of 13 years, tailoring my approach to the needs of my client.