Jacqueline Higgs

Profile

Life is challenging. Often it’s difficult to see a way forward. Sometimes you find yourself repeating the same old patterns, wondering how you got to this point again. You may have a feeling that something's not quite 'right' or that you 'should' be happy, but don't understand why you're not. This is where counselling can help; it can help you to understand the choices you have made, move you in a more positive direction and lead you to a more fulfilling life.

I am an experienced Humanistic counsellor and in my private practice will provide a safe, quiet and confidential space for you to look at what’s going on in your life. I understand that coming to see a relative stranger to talk about difficult and often painful concerns is not an easy thing to do. But I do believe that the relationship between client and counsellor is an important part of counselling, and establishing a relationship with you that is warm, empathic and non-judgemental will help you to explore those concerns. I also understand that not everyone is the same and what works for one person may not work for another, so I use an integrative approach, incorporating Gestalt, Person-Centred therapy, Transactional Analysis and Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT).

Counselling Experience
I have worked at The Heart of Kent Hospice as a bereavement counsellor, helping relatives and friends come to terms with their loss. At Hastings and Rother Counselling Service I work with referrals from the NHS; adults who present with a wide range of issues. I am also employed as a school counsellor, working with children and their families in schools in the Kent area.

I believe that everybody has the potential to change, given the right conditions.

Training, Qualifications & Experience

BSc Hons. Life Sciences
Introductory course to Psychodynamic Therapy.
Certificates in counselling skills and practise.
Advanced Diploma in Humanistic Counselling (Adv.Dip.Hum. Couns.), which is accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Certificate in Filial Play Coaching

I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP) and as such, I am bound by its ethical framework for good practice in counselling & psychotherapy.

Areas of counselling I deal with

Fees

I charge £35 for each 50 minute session, which takes place at the same time and day each week. The initial session takes the form of an assessment in which we discuss whether we can work usefully together. If this is not possible, we can discuss other options to help you find the support you need.

I offer long-term open-ended as well as short-term solution-focused counselling.

Further Information

I have experience of working with a broad range of issues including, sexual, physical and mental abuse, self-harm, depression, loss, bereavement and relationship issues.