Rate Jamie Longson

Life can be challenging, unpredictable, and at times overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, depression, or simply want to explore who you are on a deeper level, counselling can offer a safe, non-judgemental space to begin this journey. I provide a person-centred counselling service to adults aged 18 and above, helping individuals work through a wide range of issues while fostering greater self-understanding and personal growth.

What is Person-Centred Counselling?

Person-centred counselling is a therapeutic approach rooted in the belief that each person has the capacity for personal growth. It’s about meeting you where you are, and walking alongside you as you explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. As a person-centred counsellor, I offer a space where you are heard, valued, and empowered to find your own answers, at your own pace. This approach is particularly powerful because it is tailored to your unique needs, and places you—the client—at the heart of the process.

Who Can Benefit from Counselling?

Many people seek counselling to help them work through specific issues, but you don’t have to be at a crisis point to benefit from counselling. Counselling can be a proactive way to better understand yourself, improve your wellbeing, and build resilience. I work with adults over the age of 18 who are dealing with a variety of challenges, including:

• Stress – Whether it’s from work, relationships, or life’s daily pressures, stress can take a toll on your mental and physical health.

• Work challenges – Navigating professional obstacles, workplace relationships, or burnout can be overwhelming.

• Anxiety & depression– These common mental health conditions affect many people and can make daily life feel difficult or unmanageable.

• Low mood– Feeling persistently down or unmotivated can signal deeper emotional struggles that deserve attention.

• Neurodivergent-friendly support– I offer a welcoming, understanding environment for those who identify as neurodivergent, helping you work through issues related to ADHD, autism, or other neurodiverse experiences.

• Sexuality & identity– Whether you’re questioning or exploring your identity or dealing with challenges related to your sexual orientation, I provide a safe, supportive space.

• Life transitions – Significant life changes, such as moving, job changes, or other transitions, can be difficult to navigate.

• Self-discovery – Sometimes, the most important journey is the one within. Counselling can help you better understand who you are and what you want from life.

• Relationship issues – Struggles with communication, intimacy, or emotional connection can leave you feeling stuck or frustrated.

• Loss & grief – Losing a loved one or dealing with other forms of loss can be incredibly painful. Counselling offers a space to process your emotions and move forward with your life.

• Frustration or ill health – Living with chronic frustration or illness can impact your mental health, and counselling can help you cope in a healthy way.

Supporting Dads: A Special Focus

Fatherhood is a journey filled with joy, but also challenges that are often unspoken. Whether you’re a new Dad, a Dad-to-be, or you’ve been a Dad for years, it’s common to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure of yourself. Societal pressures, the challenges of balancing work and family, and the emotional toll of fatherhood can lead to feelings of isolation or anxiety.

I have a special interest in supporting Dads with their mental health. Fatherhood isn’t just about raising children; it’s about understanding how the experience impacts your identity, relationships, and emotional wellbeing. Together, we can explore:

• The transition to fatherhood

• Managing stress and anxiety

• Balancing work and family life

• Dealing with feelings of inadequacy or insecurity

• Coping with loss, whether through miscarriage, infant loss, or separation from your children

You don’t have to go through these challenges alone. My counselling practice is a safe space for dads to share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment.

Maybe, you've heard of Person-Centred therapy but still aren't quite sure what it entails or if it's the right fit for you. Well, you're in luck! I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help shed light on this therapeutic approach and how I work, making your journey toward healing and self-discovery a little less daunting.

• Can person-centred therapy help with anxiety and depression? Absolutely! While person-centred therapy is a non-directive approach, it provides a supportive environment that can be incredibly beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety and depression. By fostering a deeper understanding of oneself and promoting self-acceptance, many find significant relief from their symptoms.

• What should I expect in my first person-centred therapy session with you? Expect a warm, welcoming space where you're encouraged to share what is on your mind at your own pace. I will focus on getting to know you and understanding your feelings. There's no pressure to act or be a certain way; it's all about you and what you need.

• How does person-centred therapy handle trauma? Person-centred therapy approaches trauma with empathy and non-judgement. While it may not involve specific trauma-focused techniques like some other therapies, its supportive environment can help individuals process their experiences at their own pace, fostering healing and growth.

• Is person-centred therapy effective for relationship issues? Yes! It enhances self-understanding and empathy, which can lead to more open, authentic communication with partners, improving relationship dynamics.

• How do I find a qualified person-centred counsellor? Look for counsellors who list person-centred therapy as one of their approaches on their professional profiles such as the BACP or Psychology today like I do. Many counsellors also have certifications or specialised training in person-centred therapy, so don't hesitate to ask about their qualifications and experience.

• How does person-centred therapy differ from cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)? While person-centred therapy focuses on providing a supportive environment for self-exploration and growth, it does not advise, interpret or direct. CBT is more directive, aiming to change patterns of thinking or behaviour that are causing problems. Both have their benefits, depending on an individual's needs and preferences.

• What if I don't feel like I'm making progress with person-centred therapy? Counselling is a very personal journey, and it's important to communicate with your counsellor if you're feeling stuck. Sometimes, adjusting the focus of your sessions can enhance your experience and progress. That’s why I like to conduct a review of a client’s progress every six sessions.

• What's the difference between person-centred therapy and other types of therapy? Person-centred therapy is non-directive and a collaborative approach, it focuses on the individual's perspective and feelings without judgment, emphasising a supportive and understanding therapeutic environment. Other therapies might take a more directive or problem-solving approach.

• How long does person-centred therapy typically last? The duration varies depending on the individual's needs and goals. It can be short-term for specific issues or longer-term for deeper exploration. I offer an open-ended number of sessions, giving you the autonomy to decide how many sessions you would like.

• Is person-centred therapy right for everyone? While it offers many benefits, its suitability can vary depending on personal preferences and the nature of the issues being explored. It's important to find a therapeutic approach that feels right for you.

• How long does it typically take to see results from person-centred therapy? The timeline for seeing results can vary greatly from person to person, depending on individual circumstances, participation and what issues are being addressed. Person-centred therapy is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and some clients may notice positive changes in their outlook and wellbeing within a few sessions, while for others, deeper exploration may take longer.

• What makes person-centred therapy different from just talking to a friend? While talking to a friend can provide support and comfort, person-centred therapy offers a relationship with a professional who is trained to listen deeply, empathetically, and without judgment and is independent from your life. I am skilled at facilitating personal growth and healing through my understanding of therapeutic techniques, providing a level of insight and support that goes beyond everyday conversations.

• Can person-centred therapy help with issues from the past? While person-centred therapy might not focus on the past in a directive manner as some other therapeutic approaches do, it facilitates a natural exploration of the past as it becomes relevant to an individual’s current issues and feelings. This process helps clients to heal from past hurts, understand the impact of their history on their present lives, and move towards a healthier, more integrated sense of self.

I hope this answered some of the mysteries of person-centred therapy and how I work, as it's clear that this approach offers profound opportunities for growth, healing, and self-discovery. If you're feeling ready to take that step, to peel back the layers of your experience and move towards a more authentic and fulfilling life, I'm here to walk that journey with you.

I'm a dedicated person-centred counsellor, I am here to support you through difficult times and I try to be as flexible as possible with my schedule via Video, Phone or Live Chat.