Leigh Warren-Thomas MBACP
Profile
Contacting a counsellor can feel like a big step...but it can be the first step towards getting some objective, non-judgmental support in a safe, respectful space. I believe in giving you the opportunity to tell your story at your pace in your own words.
There are a host of reasons for seeking professional support. Past events or current difficulties can cause real pain, anger and distress. You may feel at a crossroads, uncertain of how to move forward. There might simply be an overwhelming need to have someone to turn to, someone who will genuinely listen but has no agenda of their own.
My aim is to enable people to find a safe release for their feelings and to make positive changes for the future. Together, we can develop an understanding of the what, why and how of the issues you bring. As the picture becomes clear, we can begin to progress towards realistic, meaningful aims.
It's important that you feel okay talking openly and honestly with your counsellor, and that you feel a sense of trust. Counselling is an active process - you will need to take an active part in the sessions - and if you feel comfortable with me, that will make the process easier.
I work in two locations, one in Romsey, one in Winchester. Both rooms are quiet, comfortable and private, and conveniently located close to public transport links and car parking. Either location is within reach of Southampton, Totton, Eastleigh, Chandler's Ford, the New Forest, Salisbury, Andover and Stockbridge, as well surrounding villages.
Choosing a counsellor is an important decision. There's only so much you can find out from a directory entry like this, so please feel free to get in touch. I'm a friendly, warm, approachable person - lots of people say I put them at their ease!
If you'd like to know something that's not mentioned here, please ring or email me, or take a look at my website. Your questions and queries are welcome - there's no obligation to do anything afterwards if you don't want to.
Training, Qualifications & Experience
I am a fully qualified counsellor and I undertake regular training and supervision.
I have worked with people from a wide age range, from university students right through to clients who are in their 80s. We've worked on issues that include:
- bereavement and loss
- grief
- anxiety
- depression
- self-esteem
- bullying
- relationship difficulties
- unhelpful patterns of behaviour
- fears about the future
- anger
- financial worries
- life changes/life events
- feeling "stuck" or in a rut
- being a carer
- abusive relationships
- struggling to cope
- family breakdown
This is by no means a complete list, so if the issue that's uppermost in your mind isn't here, please don't be put off.
I am also a qualified music therapist, registered with the Health Professions Council UK. In this field I work primarily with clients who have been diagnosed with various disabilities, with the aim of improving physical and emotional functioning. This has given me a good understanding of the demands of caring for and managing the needs of those who are unable to care for themselves.
I am a member of both the BACP and the BAMT (British Association of Music Therapists), and work in accordance with the professional code of ethics of both organisations.
Areas of counselling I deal with
- Abortion
- Abuse
- Affairs and Betrayals
- Anger Management
- Anxiety
- Asperger's Syndrome
- Bereavement
- Bullying
- Carers Support
- Child Related Issues
- Dementia
- Depression
- Disabilities
- Domestic Violence
- Family Issues
- Learning Difficulties
- Low Self-Confidence
- Low Self-Esteem
- Miscarriage
- Relationship Issues
- Separation and Divorce
- Stress
- Trauma
- Work Related Issues
Therapies Offered
Fees
£40
Initial consultation free of charge
Some concessions apply, including for students. Please ask.
Member Organisation(s)
