Rate Charlotte Houghton

Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile.

I am a person (or client) centred counsellor and work collaboratively with you to unpick the issues that are troubling you. I came to the counselling profession in my 40's as I had often been told that I was a good listener. I form a warm and caring therapeutic relationship with my clients and although I like clients to have a goal, the pace is set by you and can change as other issues come up and become more important.

I am quite understanding that sometimes our life gets in the way, things happen that are beyond our control and we 'don't have time for counselling', so think of a session as taking 50 minutes for you, get comfy, grab a brew and let it out, swear if you need to, I really don't mind.

I am genuine, warm and offer empathic understanding and like to work collaboratively with you to unpick the issues that are troubling you. I am a person centred counsellor and feel that this approach fits with my way of being, the Person Centred Approach is a talking therapy that does not assign homework and has as its core values that a therapist should be empathic, non-judgemental and genuine whilst being fully present and actively listening as well as recognising that the client is an expert on themselves. I aim to bring all of these aspects to our sessions.

I offer you the space and confidentiality (with some limitations) to talk freely and without judgements and I am not uncomfortable if you cry or need a few minutes to collect your thoughts before continuing.

I enjoy linking adult behaviours or feelings to childhood experiences, whether they are negative or positive, as once we have the awareness of why we react a certain way, we can work on it.

I work with clients who have been bereaved by suicide and sudden death and worked with them to accept the changes that follow including loss of identity and security. I also have 8 months experience counselling people that live with MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and understand the anxiety and worries a long-term medical diagnosis can bring.

I am not neurodiverse but I do have a family member who is and understand how that can impact all aspects of family life both positively and negatively.

I enjoy working with a variety of people of all ages, nationalities, genders and LGBTQ+ and feel that the unconditional positive regard offered as part of the person centred approach really adds to the therapeutic relationship.

I read and reply to emails and send worksheets outside of the session times listed especially for email-only clients as I have found that the flexible approach to working is mutually beneficial. I also offer live sessions starting at 8pm in the evenings a few days a week to fit in with people's busy lives and have daytime sessions available on a Monday and Thursday so hope you find a time that works for you.

It takes courage to admit that you could do with an independent and trained person to talk to, so be proud of yourself for taking this step to a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that first step, I am here to support and empower you.

I look forward to working with you!