Albert Phipps

Hello, my name is Albert E. Phipps

I was the Chair of trustees/directors (I was a trustee for over 8 years) at a local mental health charity called MhIST. I was also a volunteer counsellor (for over 10 years) at MhIST.  I am now the chair of the board at a counselling provider called 1point based in Bolton. 1point provide (on behalf of the NHS) around 50% of the therapy services for the people of Bolton. Moreover I am a registered member of the BACP (registration number 54540), you can find information about the register here  and a graduate member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) registration number 081862.

I was elected to be lead public governor on the Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust board (this was a voluntary unpaid position which I held for 3 years). Moreover, I have done work for workplace mental health limited; as in I have written and delivered a two day course on mental health first aid to a group of Teachers at a local school. I have also delivered seventeen two day courses on mental health awareness to approximately 250 staff who work for the Department of Work and Pensions

Similarly for several weeks I was asked to provide therapeutic services to students at The University of Bolton; due to increased demand because of the fire at student accommodation in Bolton.

Prior to 'retirement' I was a Psychology lecturer at the University of Bolton. I worked there for nearly 20 years, during this time I taught and assessed students who wanted to be counselors (helping them develop their therapeutic skills). I have also taught, supervised and assessed students skills on an MSc in applied counselling psychology at The University of Salford. In 2015/16 I was was voted the personal tutor of the year by the students of Bolton University. In 2016 I supervised the clinical practice of two Doctoral students.

In 2020/1/2 I was asked to give four guest lectures to third year students on the counseling and psychology degree at Bolton University. Likewise, I was also asked  to give a presentation at the University's abnormal psychology conference.

My professional background and my role as a personal tutor means that I have gained wide ranging experience of providing people (of all ages and backgrounds) with help, advice and support. Therefore it seemed natural that I enhanced my tutorial skills with some training in counselling. Moreover, my academic training/teaching has given me an in-depth knowledge of psychology in general.

I am an integrative therapist meaning I combine several different approaches and I 'apply' them when appropriate. I feel this gives greater flexibility and enables me to adapt my therapy to the needs/circumstances of my clients.

I have a well rounded body of counselling practice (I was a therapist at MhIST for over 10 years).  Whilst working at MhIST (and in my private practice) I have supported people from all walks of life. backgrounds and experiences who have presented a wide and diverse range of concerns. This means I have extensive experience of working with anxiety, depression, relationships, phobias, panic, attachment, self-esteem OCD, childhood sexual abuse as well as many other issues. For example, I am trained in Rewind Therapy which is proving to be very helpful for people who have PTSD.

Similarly,  I have around 20 years of practical (teaching and supporting students) experience to draw upon. All the above shows I have extensive knowledge and the 'hands on use' of counselling/therapy.

I understand that (for some) seeing a therapist may seem like a daunting experience but I can assure you that you will be treated with respect, empathy and understanding.  Moreover, my general life experience means I have a mature, practical and 'down to earth' approach to my work.

To sum up, I am someone who has studied psychology for over 20 years; who has taught and assessed counselling students at under and post graduate levels, and has over 10 years experience of working with clients with a wide range of issues/backgrounds. This coupled with my work as a University lecturer, trustee and NHS governor has given me a wealth of experience, all of which (I feel) helps me to help you.  For an independent assessment see below.....

“I am delighted to recommend Albert Phipps’. I have known Albert for several years and know what a positive influence he has been in hundreds of peoples’ lives. I would be happy to have him treat any of my own family! He is respectful, dynamic, experienced, dedicated, thorough, creative and good humoured. He is everything you would expect of a great therapist!

Dr Jerome Carson, Professor of Psychology.

Finally, in order to comply with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulations 2018) I am registered (number ZA401488) with the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office). This is a legal requirement and ensures all information I hold about you is dealt with securely/correctly.

How To Contact Me

The best way to get in touch is text, voice mail or e-mail, and I will get back to you within 24 hours. PLEASE NOTE if you leave a voicemail you need to give your phone number if you do not do this I will not (thanks to BT's lousy voicemail system) be able to contact you!

Location

I am now able to conduct sessions online via Zoom or face to face in my home which is a few minutes drive from junction 5 of the M61. 

In order for you decide if you will be comfortable working with me, we can meet up to talk about issues in general (around 30/40 minutes in duration); this is free of charge and with no obligation. During this session I will provide you with an information to make sure you are fully informed about the services I offer.

The first ‘proper’ session will be between 60 and 90 minutes in length; each subsequent session will be 60 minutes in length. The cost of all individual sessions is £40 payable on the day by cash, cheque or direct bank transfer.

Please note I offer concessions for key workers i.e. people who work for the NHS, Police and Fire Services as well as student therapists please contact me for details.

PLEASE NOTE If you need to cancel an appointment, I require at least 12 hours-notice if this not given 50% of the fee (i.e. £20.00) will be payable. 

I have also had experience of working with adult survivors of sexual abuse.

I also have around 20 years experience of providing pastoral care for students e.g. the various emotional issues that can 'crop up' whilst studying.
I am also able to provide supervision for trainee and qualified therapists.

Please contact me for more details about any of these services.