Kim Shepherd

Hello, and welcome to my profile.

I am a BACP Registered Counsellor and have been practicing for 17 years offering both short and long term Counselling. I have many years experience working in Mental Health and Primary Care settings covering a range of issues including  anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, low self esteem/confidence, bereavement including loss of child, emotional/physical/sexual abuse including childhood abuse and other childhood issues, personal growth, pain management.  I have also worked with Northumbria Police providing counselling and support to  those affected by rape and sexual assault.  As there are too many to name here, please see the list below to view other issues I work with.

I understand the thought of coming to Counselling can feel very daunting and raise anxiety.   This is natural and I believe, therefore, the relationship between you and your Counsellor is of utmost importance. I understand if you feel the need to contact me to discuss any uncertainties you may have  before deciding if Counselling is right for you at the present time. Please leave a message if I am unavailable with a convenient time to call you back.

Now, a little bit about Counselling:

Counselling offers you the space and time to explore what is troubling you and there are many reasons why people choose to come to Counselling. Maybe you know why you feel the way you do and are looking for some time and space to explore those feelings in a safe, supportive, confidential place - a place where you will not be judged but will be listened to and accepted with warmth and empathy. Together we can decide what therapeutic intervention would be helpful to you as an individual.

Maybe you have lost your way, don't know what to do, where to turn leaving you feeling helpless, alone and/or sad.  Some of us don't know why we feel, think, behave the way we do and this can keep us stuck in unhelpful repetitive patterns in life which can lead to anxiety, depression, feelings of low self worth and impact on our overall wellbeing. Counselling offers you the opportunity to gently explore this further raising self awarenesss. When we understand ourselves we are no longer in conflict with 'the self' and this opens up a window - a choice for change. Counselling can help you work through those changes  enabling  you take control of your life again, bringing self confidence,  inner strength and a sense of empowerment.

The core of my Counselling is Person Centred, however, I offer an Integrative Counselling approach as I believe not one therapy suits all and it is important to focus on what you as an individual hope to get from Counselling. Together we can discuss your options and agree a way forward for you.

I offer a free initial consultation to discuss your issues and what you hope to get from counselling.  Please contact me to discuss further.  Please leave a message if I am unavailable and I will call you back within 24hrs.

You could also SMS me if you would like a quicker response.

Over the years I have gained a lot of experience working with many issues.
Please contact me should you wish to have a short discussion about what is troubling you before deciding if Counselling is right for you at the present time.

I offer both short and long-term therapy with both day and evening appointments.
I am close to bus and metro links and there is plenty car parking available.

I look forward to hearing from you.